More Than Just a Cute Bonnet

I'm one of those moms.

No, not the one that panics every time a child falls down. I'm most apt to wait and evaluate the situation. If it doesn't look too back, I'll tell the little one to rub it and it'll be fine. No I'm not the mom who let's my children just run amok either.

I'm the mom who keeps a bonnet on my children's heads any time they are outside until they turn about 5 or 6 years old no matter what the weather is like. I admit it was a bit more challenging with the boys, but I sewed ear flaps and ties into those little baseball caps.

​My reason? To keep those ears covered and prevent ear infections.

Disclosure: None of the links on this page are affiliate or sponsored links. These are things I trust and have used with our family. I am not a healthcare professional and do not give medical advice. This is merely based on my personal experience.

There are probably more reasons we didn't struggle as much as I see so many other moms struggle but I think bonnets were the biggest help. When we did end up with an ear problem, there were specific reasons resulting in specific natural remedies.

Our 2nd, Kristyn, had the most trouble. I finally figured out she had a milk allergy and would create an over abundance of ear wax every time she had cold cereal with milk. She loves milk to this day, but can't tolerate it. So now she drinks almond milk. I'm convinced keeping a bonnet on her head helped immensely. 

When the occasional sinus or respiratory bug catches us, sometimes an earache will accompany it. In addition to consuming extra vitamin C and hot herbal tea, Willow Garlic Ear Oil is the best thing in the world. Based on advise from an old physician's assistant, I would warm it up in a cup of hot water until is was barely warm on my wrist and put a few drops in each ear. As the children grew, they started to ask for it and then to prepare it themselves.

In the 1990's, bonnets could be incredibly difficult to find. I would stock up in the spring when the frilly dresses and cute little suits were available in the stores. As they grew, I learned to sew Prairie Bonnets. Here's a free tutorial on Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom. I think this pattern from Sew Baby is the one I have used all these years. The cover looks different, but I'm pretty sure it's the same one. I LOVE Sew Baby patterns!

So, now that we're expecting our first grandbaby, you know what I'm going to be making? Yep, bonnets. Probably in many colors with fun trims. (It's a girl!) 

... After I get the quilts done, that is. Yes, quiltS, I couldn't decide on just one pattern, so I'm making two. I'll make sure and post pictures so you can see.
​
Do you know anyone who would like to join learn more? Share this with them. I love meeting new people who are interested in Prairie Living!