Hello mga Super Moms and Dads of the Philippines! 🇵🇭 Is your little one gnawing on everything but their food, fussier than a jeepney driver in EDSA traffic, and drooling more than your Lolo watching Kris Aquino on TV? If yes, welcome to the Teething Club!
But don't despair, for I've got the ultimate guide to help your baby—and you—survive this biting phase. Get ready to flash those pearly whites!
1. The "Ice Ice Baby" Method
Don't just hum Vanilla Ice's iconic song; put it into practice! Freeze some breast milk or water in a pacifier and give it to your little gum-chewer.
Practical Example: Baby Mia won't stop crying, so Mom freezes some breast milk in a baby-friendly silicone mold. As soon as she hands it to Mia, the cries turn into contented munching.
2. Kamote Cubes
Good ol' kamote (sweet potato) isn't just for Lola's merienda. Peel and cube some kamote, freeze it, and let your baby chomp away.
Practical Example: Jose's baby loves gnawing on these frozen cubes while sitting in his high chair, enjoying the cooling sensation and the taste of home-cooked love.
3. The Magic of Lagundi Leaves
A staple in many Pinoy households for coughs and colds, lagundi can also be a savior for teething. Boil the leaves to make a mild tea, let it cool, and rub it gently on your baby's gums.
Practical Example: Tita Emma swears by this remedy. She boils lagundi leaves from her garden, cools the tea, and uses a clean cloth to apply it to Baby CJ's swollen gums. CJ seems to like it and settles down for a nap.
4. The "Banana Peel" Trick
Rub the inside of a banana peel on your baby’s gums. It's like the Pinoy version of a Western teething gel but au naturel!
Practical Example: Dad Mark discovers this trick from an old family recipe book. A few swipes of a banana peel later, Baby Marco is smiling like he just watched an episode of “Peppa Pig.”
5. ‘Palaspas’ Soothing
Got a coconut tree in the yard? Get a fresh frond (the ‘palaspas’ we wave on Palm Sunday), and let your baby gnaw on it. Sounds strange but the natural fibers can be quite soothing!
Practical Example: Lola Linda suggests this old-school technique, and it turns out to be a hit! Baby Carla gnaws happily on the palaspas, distracting her from the pain.
Bonus Tip: Keep Calm and Carry On
A stressed parent equals a stressed baby. If all else fails, simply cuddle and hum a soothing tune to your teething tot. Sometimes, a loving touch is the best medicine!
Practical Example: When Baby Paulo is inconsolable, Mom Teresa holds him close and hums “Bahay Kubo.” To her delight, the baby's cries subside, and he eventually drifts off to sleep.
There you have it, mga Kababayan! With these tips, may your babies have smiles as beautiful as the Mayon Volcano is perfect. Remember, this teething phase is just that—a phase. And if you can survive EDSA traffic, you can survive anything!
Happy teething journey, everyone! 👶🦷💕