Entries by Dr. Joe Barber

The Fussy Baby

Every infant will have strengths and weaknesses but each one is perfect. Some infants easily self soothe while other so called “difficult infants” are slow to settle. In addition, some infants experience colic. You know your infant better than anyone, and you are in the best position to understand and respond to your child. Infants […]

Role of the Father

A Father must take an active role prior to the delivery of their new child. The paternal-maternal relationship must be supported and flourish prior to the delivery. The most visible roles of the father have included economic and physical protection. Yet roles of equal importance include the fostering of social-emotional, cognitive, language and motor development. […]

Birthmarks in Infants and Children

About 1% of newborns are born with congenital nevi or moles. These are brown or black in color and may be raised or flat with the skin. They grow with the child and are safe if less than 2-3 inches in size.  Children can also develop acquired nevi or moles following delivery. These are common […]

Tips on Baby Basics

Be attuned and responsive to the needs of your infant by watching, touching and listening. Always provide love, attention and affection to your infant. Breastfeeding through one year of age is always best. Longer is better. Breast feed your new infant every 1-2 hours until your milk comes in. If your infant is urinating 6 […]

Grandparent Boundaries

Grandparent wisdom and advice can benefit your child.  By the year 2030 30% of the US population will be over age 65.  Although many things have changed since grandparents raised children many things have not.  Grandparents can be the best models, mentors and memory keepers for a family. They can also be intrusive, rash and […]

A Simple Word

Why is it so hard to say, ”No?” I picked up my afternoon schedule and nodded yes. My secretary had just asked me if she could add two patients into my afternoon schedule.  Every slot on the day planner was filled, and I wondered how I was going to find time to fit everyone in. […]

Sibling Rivalry for the School-Aged Child

School-aged children must learn how to name and accept conflicting feelings about a sibling. These children must learn that they will need to cross many small streams during their lives, but they must always be aware that even a small stream after a heavy rain can become perilous to cross. By being aware of this […]

Sibling Rivalry for Preschoolers & Toddlers

In this age group the arrival of a new baby is often accompanied by jealousy and competition for affection and attention. Toddlers and preschoolers often respond with behavior and mood changes to replace what they perceive as lost attention. This is why it is very important for parents to prepare children for the arrival of […]

The Breadbox

Why are memories so powerful? “Joey, would you get some bread out of the breadbox?” “Sure, Mom,” I answered as I walked over to the counter and twisted the black knob. The breadbox was the size of a small microwave. I twisted the knob on the stainless steel front panel and reached in and pulled […]

Skin to Skin Contact After Delivery

Much has been written about the importance of the first hour following delivery. Your infant encounters a new and previously unseen world. Sounds begin to take on new meanings and basic processes we take for granted such as breathing and eating begin. It is a time of heightened perception for both parent and infant. It […]