Infant

The Importance of Infant Routines and How to Establish Yours!

smccue — Thu, 09 May 2024 17:15:42 +0000

The Importance of Infant Routines and How to Establish Yours!

smccue Thu, 05/09/2024 - 13:15

Ah, the beautiful chaos of parenthood—where sleepless nights and endless diaper changes are balanced with heart-melting snuggles and sweet baby giggles. If you're a new parent navigating the uncharted waters of infant care, you're likely discovering the importance of establishing routines and schedules to bring some normalcy to your days (and nights). We know the doubt and uncertainty you might be feeling but you're also experiencing a sense of confidence and ‘just knowing what to do’ based on your instincts. Fear not, we're here to guide you through the process of mastering infant routines and schedules like a pro.

Why Are Routines and Schedules Important for Infants?

Babies thrive on predictability and consistency, and establishing regular routines can provide them with a sense of security and stability in their ever-changing world. Infant care routines can also help parents and caregivers anticipate and meet a baby's needs more effectively, leading to smoother transitions and less stress for everyone. On the flip side, it’s important to remember that they are just that – babies – and still are adjusting to their new world. Give them (and yourself!) grace and know that no two days are ever the same.

Creating a Daily Infant Care Routine

When it comes to establishing a daily routine for your infant, flexibility is key. While babies thrive on routines, they're also notorious for throwing curveballs when you least expect them. That being said, here's a basic framework to help you structure your baby's day:

Feeding: Whether you're breastfeeding or formula feeding, feeding sessions will likely dominate your baby's early days. Aim for feeding sessions every 2-3 hours, or whenever your baby shows signs of hunger such as rooting, sucking on their hands, or fussiness.
Sleeping: Newborns sleep—a lot. While their sleep patterns may be erratic and unpredictable in the beginning, you can start establishing a bedtime routine as early as 6-8 weeks old. Keep nighttime feedings quiet and soothing and create a calming bedtime ritual to signal to your baby that it's time to wind down for the night. Prepare any necessary items (bottles, diapers, burp cloths, etc.) before going to sleep yourself to make those middle of the night wakeups just a little easier.
Playtime: Playtime is essential for your baby's development and bonding with you. Incorporate plenty of tummy time, sensory play, and age-appropriate toys into your baby's day to stimulate their growing brain and encourage motor skill development.
Diaper Changes: Diaper changes are an inevitable part of parenthood, so be prepared for plenty of them throughout the day. Aim to change your baby's diaper every 2-3 hours, or whenever they show signs of discomfort or have a soiled diaper.
Bath Time: Bath time can be a soothing and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby. Incorporate bath time into your evening routine as a calming way to signal the end of the day and prepare your baby for sleep.

Tips for Establishing and Maintaining Infant Routines

Now that you have a basic understanding of infant routines, here are some tips for establishing and maintaining them:

Be Flexible: While routines are important, it's also essential to remain flexible and adapt to your baby's changing needs. Some days may go smoothly, while others may be more challenging—roll with the punches and trust that you're doing your best.
Watch for Cues: Pay attention to your baby's cues and signals—they're the best indicators of what they need at any given moment. Whether it's hunger cues, tiredness, or overstimulation, responding promptly can help prevent meltdowns and foster a deeper connection between you and your little one.
Be Patient: Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither are solid routines. It may take some trial and error to find an infant care routine that works for you and your baby, so be patient with yourself and your little one as you navigate this journey together.
Get Support: Don't be afraid to lean on your support network for help and guidance. Whether it's a partner, family member, or friend, having someone to share the ups and downs of parenthood with can make all the difference.
Take Care of Yourself: Last but certainly not least, don't forget to take care of yourself amidst the whirlwind of caring for a newborn. Remember that you're doing an amazing job, and it's okay to ask for help when you need it. Self-care isn't selfish—it's essential for your well-being and your ability to care for your baby.

In conclusion, establishing your infant care routine can provide structure, predictability, and comfort in the midst of the beautiful chaos of parenthood. By being flexible, responsive to your baby's cues, and patient with yourself, you can create a nurturing environment where your baby can thrive and grow. So, embrace the journey, cherish the moments, and trust in your instincts—you've got this, new parents!

Tags

routine

infant care

Infant

How to Change Your Baby Without a Changing Table... Because Sometimes You're Stuck in a Pinch!

smccue — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 19:06:02 +0000

How to Change Your Baby Without a Changing Table... Because Sometimes You're Stuck in a Pinch!

smccue Thu, 06/29/2023 - 15:06

Parents around the United States breathed a sigh of relief in 2016 when the BABIES Act was signed into law, requiring public places to install a changing station in both men’s and women’s bathrooms.

Even with this victory, parents may find themselves in a place where the facilities are not so accommodating or clean enough for their standards. What’s more, parents may be in places where there are no facilities at all such as an outdoor setting.

There’s no need to concern though, because changing a diaper, no matter where, is all about two things: safety and having the right tools.

To start off, moms and dads should use the most stable surface available and make sure they always have at least one hand on their child. Picnic tables, beds, the backseat of a car, strollers, changing rooms, countertops and park benches are all viable options. Parents can even change their baby’s diaper on their own laps or, if they are feeling especially agile, while standing up.

Regardless of where that diaper gets changed, a parent’s job will be much easier if they have the right tools on hand. Diaper bags should always be stocked with the necessary supplies, including wipes, diaper cream, diapers, hand sanitizer and a change of clothes for accidents.

In addition, a baby’s diaper bag should always have at least two receiving blankets. These handy bits of cloth can easily function as a layer between the baby and just about any flat surface.

The most important item in that diaper bag, though, will be a portable changing pad. These essential devices come in a variety of flexible materials that fold up neatly into smaller shapes that can easily be tucked into a diaper bag or even backpacks and large purses. They provide a sturdy layer between one’s child and whatever surface parents are using to change him or her. Some changing pads come with shoulder straps, while others can merely hang around the wrist, and others have pockets meant for diapers and wipes. Regardless of design, a portable changing pad is a parent’s best friend when they are on the go.

So, what to do with that dirty diaper?

If there’s no trash can—and chances are there won’t be—parents can use a plastic bag to wrap up the mess until they can dispose of the diaper in an appropriate place. For this reason, parents should try to keep two or three plastic bags tucked into diaper bags or changing stations.

Above all, parents should stay calm. Yes, changing a dirty diaper without accommodating facilities can be a huge pain, but it’s also a terrific opportunity to get creative. The faster that diaper gets changed, the faster the family can go back to enjoying their outing!

Tags

Infant

Sensory Delights: STREAM Activities at the Beach for Infants

smccue — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 20:16:04 +0000

Sensory Delights: STREAM Activities at the Beach for Infants

smccue Thu, 06/01/2023 - 16:16

The beach is not just a playground for older children and adults; it can also be an incredible sensory wonderland for infants! With the gentle breeze, warm sand, and soothing sounds of the waves, the beach offers a fantastic opportunity to engage your little one's senses while introducing them to the exciting world of STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Let's explore a variety of enriching activities designed specifically for infants, making their (and your!) beach experience enjoyable and educational.

Sensory Sensations: Babies are naturally curious and love to explore the world through their senses. The beach provides a perfect sensory playground for them to touch, feel, and experience new textures. Sit your little one on a blanket and let their tiny toes dig into the warm sand. Allow them to feel the sand between their fingers, watch the gentle waves roll in, and listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean. These sensory experiences help develop their cognitive and motor skills while creating precious memories.
Outdoor Explorations: Let your infant fully immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the beach. Encourage them to observe seagulls soaring overhead or watch the gentle swaying of beach grass in the breeze. Have them listen to the rustling of seashells or the sound of their own breath as they take in the fresh ocean air. These simple yet captivating moments allow infants to make connections with their environment, stimulating their senses and fostering a love for nature.
Reading and Rhyming in the Shade: Reading is a fantastic way to bond with your little one while introducing them to the joys of language. Set up a cozy spot in the shade and bring along age-appropriate board books with vibrant illustrations of beach scenes. Read aloud to your baby, using expressive voices and engaging them with finger play or gentle rhymes. As you point to pictures and name objects, your infant will begin to make associations and develop early language skills.
Engaging with Water Play: Water play is a delightful experience for infants and offers a multitude of learning opportunities. Fill a small basin or bucket with seawater and let your little one splash and explore. Encourage them to dip their fingers or toes in the water, feeling its coolness and wetness. Introduce them to simple water toys, such as cups or small containers, to enhance their fine motor skills. As they scoop, pour, and observe the movement of water, they are building an understanding of basic physics and cause-and-effect relationships.
Building Sand Sensations: While infants may not yet have the motor skills to build intricate sandcastles, they can still enjoy the tactile wonder of sand play. Sit them on a beach blanket in a shaded area and let their little hands explore the soft, powdery sand. Show them how to make simple imprints or shapes by gently pressing their hands or feet into the sand. This hands-on experience stimulates their senses, promotes sensory integration, and encourages their natural curiosity.
Artistic Expressions with Nature: Introduce your infant to the artistic side of the beach by creating simple nature-inspired crafts together. Collect smooth pebbles, seashells, and pieces of driftwood to create a sensory collage. Let your little one explore these natural treasures, feel their textures, and observe their shapes and colors. Use non-toxic glue to affix the items onto a piece of cardboard or paper. This activity encourages fine motor skills, sensory exploration, and appreciation for the natural world.

The beach is a magical place for infants to embark on their STREAM journey, discovering the wonders of the world through their senses. From sensory sensations in the sand to tech-free explorations and engaging water play, each activity nurtures their development and creates special bonding moments with caregivers. So, grab your beach essentials, embrace the tranquility of the ocean, and watch your little one's eyes light up with wonder as they experience the delights of STREAM activities at the beach!

Tags

STREAM

Infant

Creating a Baby Registry: What You REALLY Need

lba-admin — Fri, 31 Jan 2020 14:06:31 +0000

Creating a Baby Registry: What You REALLY Need

lba-admin Fri, 01/31/2020 - 09:06

Don’t fall for all the hyped up items; stick with the tried and true to make your life easier

Well-meaning family, friends and colleagues often want to gift parents-to-be and new parents sentimental baby items that can be treasured for years and even passed on to the next generation. The truth, however, is that the people involved in a newborn’s first few weeks of life really just want one thing: sleep.

And diapers. But we’ll get to that in a moment.

A newborn baby doesn’t need books or toys just yet, nor does a newborn need formal outfits or even shoes. They can’t walk anywhere, for one, and the first month of life will be a repeating cycle of feedings, naps, diaper changes and, for the parents, laundry. For these reasons, new parents should consider sticking to the basics when creating a baby registry to ensure they get items they really need and will use.

Here are essential baby items that will help everyone persevere through those first few weeks.

The clothing basics

Onesies, particularly those with zippers, and bodysuits will be a new parent’s best friends, and the great news is that they often come in packs. Opt to include 10 newborn-sized bodysuits and five newborn-sized onesies on the registry, as well as at least 10 three-month-sized bodysuits and five three-month-sized onesies. There’s no telling how big your baby will be when he or she is born, or how fast they’ll grow, so this will help everyone be prepared for different possibilities.

The right furniture

Fact: babies need a lot of furniture. A crib (don’t forget to include a mattress pad and at least three fitted sheets!), a changing table and a dresser are all crucial. If there’s limited space in the baby’s room or area, there are plenty of useful changing table and dresser combinations. A rocking chair or glider, preferably one with a matching ottoman, will make feedings comfortable for you at all hours of the day and night.

Diaper-changing supplies

Newborns can go through a lot of diapers, which is why no baby registry is complete without three boxes of newborn-sized diapers and, in preparation for possible quick growth, two boxes of Size 1 diapers. Wipes, diaper cream and a changing station for that changing table are all a must. Remember: organization will make those middle-of-the-night diaper changes and feedings as efficient as they can be!

Baby on-the-go

A rocking swing will provide the little one with a soothing place to rest while parents do things around the house. (Like laundry.) Since parents will need to bring their baby to pediatrician appointments, registering for a diaper bag—and always keeping said diaper bag packed with the essentials—will come in handy when everyone needs to leave the house in a jiffy!

Baby hygiene

After a certain amount of time (and under a pediatrician’s guidance), parents will start bathing their baby. (But not every day!) Instead of worrying about separate items such as shampoo and soap, parents should opt for a large bottle of a shampoo and body wash combination. Also important are baby lotion, baby oil, baby laundry detergent, washcloths and hooded towels, plus a baby nail file to literally keep the edge off of those (surprisingly sharp!) nails.

On the hygiene note, babies will spit up and drool quite a bit, which is why there is no such thing as too many receiving blankets or bibs. There should be at least 20 on the registry, as this versatile item can double as a burp cloth and later serve as an actual blanket.

And don’t forget about mama!

A new mom needs all of the help she can get, which is why items aimed at maternal health and wellness should absolutely be included on a baby registry. From nursing bras to special creams and lotions to cooling pads to breast pumps and related accessories, there are many ways to make a mother’s life easier after delivery.

Remember: When planning their registry, new parents and parents-to-be should focus on items that will be most useful during their baby’s first few months. Family and friends and acquaintances will likely continue to bring gifts on a regular basis after the baby is born, which is why expectant parents should stick to the basics and not worry about fancy frills.

Tags

Good Nights, Only: Tips To Help Your Child Develop Healthy Sleep Habits

lba-admin — Fri, 20 Sep 2019 12:52:40 +0000

Good Nights, Only: Tips To Help Your Child Develop Healthy Sleep Habits

lba-admin Fri, 09/20/2019 - 08:52

From infancy to school-age and beyond, sleep hygiene remains critical to your child’s neurological and cognitive development.

As parents and babysitters alike know—and all too well—nothing sparks evasive behavior, tantrums and bothersome wheedling quite like the words, “It’s bedtime.” Contrary to the sometimes Oscar-worthy performances of young ones seeking to eke out “just five more minutes,” however, nothing could be more integral to healthy childhood development than sleep.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep drives the primary neural activity of early childhood development—but it takes the establishment of circadian rhythms, or the body’s natural sleeping-and-waking cycle, to really kick off. As baby’s age from newborns to infants in the first four months of life, their internal clocks begin to regulate. In order to promote the establishment of healthy rhythms and your child’s cognitive development, caretakers need look no further than these tips and tricks for dreamy nights in lieu of nightmarish bedtime routines.

Infancy (4–11 months)

“When infants are put to bed drowsy but not asleep, they are more likely to become ‘self- soothers’’, which enables them to fall asleep independently at bedtime and put themselves back to sleep during the night,” says the National Sleep Foundation. Kim West, LCSW-C—also known as “The Sleep Lady,” calls this approach “the cornerstone of successful sleep training.” This means that parents should place their little one in the crib when they’re drowsy but still awake.

“At around four to six-months-old, babies begin to develop their internal clock,” shares West. “They begin to produce melatonin, the sleep hormone. Melatonin is triggered by sleep cues like darkness at night, and bedtime routines.” Placing your baby in a darkened room while they’re calm helps condition the brain to produce melatonin as night falls and also promotes self-soothing.

Toddler (1–2 years)

“Thirty minutes to an hour before bedtime, start a calming ritual that may include giving a bath and reading a story or two,” suggests Parents.com. Consistency aids in the further cultivation of healthy circadian rhythms and the prelude to actual lights-out provides your young child’s active mind time to wind down.

“Children thrive on routine,” writes West for Pampers. “When a young child knows what to expect, they feel secure.” A sense of security not only lessens the chance of middle-of-the-night fussing, but also helps in the establishment of a secure attachment bond between parent and child.

Preschoolers (3–5 years)

According to The Sleep Foundation, “preschoolers typically sleep 11–13 hours each night and most do not nap after five years of age.” For parents and caretakers, this may sound enthusing...except that, like toddlers, still-developing self-regulation systems mean that “difficulty falling asleep and waking up during the night are common,” for preschool-age children, according to The Sleep Foundation.

The fix? Routine, routine, routine.

According to KidsHealth, practices like “winding-down period during the half hour before bedtime” and “keep[ing] consistent playtimes and mealtimes” are key ways to promote your little one’s sleep.

Other top tips from the site include using the bed “only for sleeping—not for playing or watching TV” and allowing your child to “choose which pajamas to wear, which stuffed animal to take to bed, etc.”, as this reaffirms that the bedroom is a safe, quiet space where the child can relax.

Primary school-aged children (6–13 years)

In our digital age, it’s especially tempting to allow computers, smartphones, TVs and other devices into your child’s room—but this can seriously disrupt their natural sleep patterns and translate to lower quality sleep, which in turn contributes to cognitive impairment and poor performance in school.

Avoid technology’s overstimulating effects by keeping your child’s room cool, dark and device-free. If necessary, go the route of The Parent Cue and nix the option for nighttime browsing by changing the wifi password an hour before bedtime.

Again, routine and a consistent bedtime are your friends. Even when the bedtime theatrics set in, remember that routines cultivate a sense of security and self-discipline—both critical to healthy development.

Tags

Infant

sleep habits

sleep

10 Infancy Books Every Parent Should Read

lba-admin — Fri, 23 Aug 2019 17:50:10 +0000

10 Infancy Books Every Parent Should Read

lba-admin Fri, 08/23/2019 - 13:50

Whether they’re humorous or helpful, there’s something on this list for all parents of infants.

If this is your first time as a parent, you might be feeling as if you don’t know where to begin. How do I get my baby to sleep? When is it safe to bring bring my little girl out in public? There’s a great deal of infant-parenting advice and literature out there and whether much of it is worth reading can often depend upon whom you ask!

Ultimately, you’ll rightfully adopt any tips and tricks you think will work best for you and your family. In the meantime, it doesn’t hurt to check out a variety of books filled with advice to help you get through—and even enjoy—the thrills and spills of your baby’s infancy.

From books filled with sleep advice to humorous books that will give you a good laugh, here are 10 parenting books every parent of an infant should read.

Baby 411: Clear Answers & Smart Advice for Your Baby’s First Year by Dr. Ari Brown and Denise Fields

Get your highlighter ready! This book is filled with plenty of basic advice to help new parents navigate their infant’s first year of life. The book goes into topics such as picking a pediatrician, first aid, nutrition and more. There are also tips on how to soothe a fussy baby. Who wouldn’t want to take a peek at that?

Nurture: A Modern Guide to Pregnancy, Birth, Early Motherhood and Trusting Yourself and Your Body by Erica Chidi Cohen

Still pregnant? This book is a good choice for moms-to-be who want to take a more mindful approach—or as much of a mindful approach as they can—to giving birth and having a newborn at home. The book includes mindfulness exercises, recipes for mom and birthing tips. New moms—and new parents in general—will likely appreciate any zen they can get!

Bringing Up Bébé: One American Mother Discovers the Wisdom of French Parenting by Pamela Druckerman

The author, an American journalist and mother living and raising her children in Paris, wondered why French moms always seem so content and chill. She struck out to discover the secret to parenting-while-French and Bringing Up Bébé was, well, born. The book goes into a wide range of baby- and child-related topics, from encouraging good eating habits to getting your little one to sleep through the night. Druckerman also goes into French motherhood ideals and even how French moms prioritize maintaining their pre-baby identities.

The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality by Kimberly Ann Johnson

Moms who enjoy a more holistic approach to life might especially delight in this book. The book includes tips on how to exercise safely after giving birth and how to deal with postpartum emotions. The book also goes into maintaining your relationship with your partner after pregnancy.

The Happiest Baby on the Block by Harvey Karp

All babies cry, but if your baby is a crier then this might be the book for you! The book goes into what is referred to as a baby’s Calming Reflex, the Fourth Trimester and the Cuddle Cure, among other topics. Bottom line: It’s about soothing your child, which can help just about any parent of an infant.

Cribsheet: A Data-Driven Guide to Better, More Relaxed Parenting by Emily Oster

Written by an economist - and mother of two - this book takes a hard look at advice aimed at pregnant women and new parents. Oster, who also wrote the book “Expecting Better,” aims to debunk myths around topics such as breastfeeding and sleep training.

Understanding Infants by Gigi Schweikert

Do you work in the infant care field? Written by Lightbridge Academy, President & Chief Operating Officer, this professional guide gives tips on working in the world of early child care. How do you decipher where a baby is tired, hungry or just needs a hug? There are plenty of tips on responding to infant cues, which should prove useful for anyone in regular contact with tiny humans.

Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child by Mac Weissbluth, M.D.

What parent doesn’t want their child to be a good sleeper? This book goes into the many different aspects of sleeping for both babies and small children, from naps to sleep cycles to bedwetting to nightmares.

Baby Sign Language Basics: Early Communication for Hearing Babies and Toddlers by Monta Z. Briant

Interested in teaching your baby some—or a lot of—sign language? This book contains more than 300 American Sign Language (ASL) signs, so it can help you get off to a great start. The third edition even includes a video signing dictionary.

#IMomSoHard by Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley

Based on the authors’ web series, the book takes a humorous—and strictly non-judgmental—look at motherhood and is designed to remind all mothers that they are not alone. With chapters such as “Body After Baby So Hard” and “Lose My Mind So Hard,” this read ensures that moms of children of all ages will surely find something to make them laugh.

Tags

Pregnant

Books

Infant

Surviving (and Thriving) Parenthood in the Pinterest Age

lba-admin — Fri, 23 Feb 2018 16:03:04 +0000

Surviving (and Thriving) Parenthood in the Pinterest Age

lba-admin Fri, 02/23/2018 - 11:03

The perfect birthday cakes. The adorable hand-knit booties and hat set. The perfect family photo shoot that looks like a magazine cover. We've seen it all - Pinterest.

But while the content sharing service that allows members to "pin" images, videos and other objects to custom pinboards, it has inspired millions of users to get creative at home, there's also been an unsuspected consequence that's been dubbed "Pinterest Stress."

From crazy crockpot recipes, to "10 quick and easy ways to organize the clutter" we've all thought, "I would love to do that!" But while the beautiful, creative images can inspire, it's easy to see why busy, working parents can begin to feel a little jaded by it all.

Before you let these perfectly photographed projects make you feel inadequate as a parent, remember one thing: your children love you for you. The amazingly high standards we've set for ourselves doesn’t matter to our children. It's all about the way you make them feel - loved and adored! Between the daily work commute, shuffling to and from your local Lightbridge Academy center, and maintaining house and home, we know your time is invaluable. Trade in the glossy photos on the screen for quality time with your family.

Just because you haven't created your child's birthday party decorations from scratch doesn't mean they didn't have the most amazing day ever, because chances are that they did. And even though you haven't gotten around to baking those made-from-scratch pink lemonade cake-pops yet doesn't mean you've failed either. In fact, it's in the unplanned and unpredicted moments that true memories are made. It's partnering up with your child to use what you have in the refrigerator to create a colorful and delicious treat that you both will remember. Or the impromptu iPhone photograph of your infant taken as they doze off in their car seat that you'll cherish forever.

Step away from the screen, unplug, and reconnect with your family. After all, the times you share right now is what makes a lifetime full of memories.

Tags

Infant

Birthday

children

Working Parent's Guide to Online Shopping this Holiday Season

lba-admin — Mon, 21 Nov 2016 16:11:19 +0000

Working Parent's Guide to Online Shopping this Holiday Season

lba-admin Mon, 11/21/2016 - 11:11

No busy mom or dad wants to take their cranky toddler or hungry infant holiday shopping. It just adds extra stress and makes for massive meltdowns in the store. The easy solution: online shopping. Whether you're a last minute gift shopper or the type who has been stocking away presents all summer, you will find a few tips below that will help save you some cash during this busy holiday season.

Start Now. Believe it or not, November has been reported to be the best month to start your holiday shopping! Thanksgiving Monday and Cyber Monday are some of the best days to find online discounts on clothes, toys and much more. So start your shopping and save BIG. Another tip: Sunday has been found to be the worst day to shop online so make sure you don't wait to the weekend to do all of your browsing.

Find & Apply Coupon Codes Automatically. Are you tired of searching for coupon codes and sales? Google has added a new feature as part of their Chrome browser called "Honey". This "wonder tool" finds discount codes, free shipping deals and promotions for online retailers and applies them before you "add to cart". Check out Google for more information.

Score Free Shipping. Now that you saved 20% on the hottest toy of the season, you need to get free shipping as well to make that deal even sweeter. Always check RetailMeNot, EBates, Freeshipping.org and the specific store's website for discount and free shipping deals. (Watch for minimum purchase requirements.) Tip: December 16 is Free Shipping Day for many online retailers!

Join A Loyalty Program. Most of us have our favorites stores and if you find yourself a regular shopper, it's a good idea to join their loyalty program. You can save lots of money by getting in on exclusive deals and discounts.

Find the Filler. To take advantage of Amazon's free shipping, you need to spend at least $35. If you're short, you can always check out www.filleritem.com or www.filleritemfinder.com to see what items you can add to your cart in order to make the minimum.

"Like" them on Social Media. You can get special deals and discounts on some retailer's web sites when you "like" their page on social media. This can translate into great savings for you by following Facebook or Instagram.

These are just a few simple ways to save some dough and still be super generous this holiday season. Happy Shopping!

Tags