Atlanta Baby

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BABY FROM ATLANTA PARENT MAGAZINE

Natural Remedies for Pregnancy Woes Try Yoga to Stretch Away Stress

Finding the Right Childcare

Lactation Concierge Services at Kennesaw Pediatrics

The Lactation Consultants at Kennesaw Pediatrics have been helping families for years in our office. Moms have told us that it made a big difference to have our help.

Our new Lactation Concierge Service brings all the good things about our lactation office visit right to your door. One of our experienced lactation consultants comes to you bringing a scale and a wealth of knowledge tempered with empathy to meet you where you are.

Call Us Today For more information and to schedule an appointment for a Lactation Concierge Home Visit.

770-429-1005

Newborn Services

Exclusive Newborn-only Waiting Room Breastfeeding Center Staffed full time with IBCLC Lactation Consultants All Providers are Pediatricians Complimentary Office Tours Monday-Thursday

Call Us Today For more information and to schedule a complimentary office tour.

770-429-1005.

3745 Cherokee St NW, Suite 401 Kennesaw, GA 30144 770-429-1005 www.kennesawpediatrics.com

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BABY FROM ATLANTA PARENT MAGAZINE

Guide for New and Expectant Parents

Good through September 2015

8 / A Birth Plan that Works

14 / Stretch with Yoga

Thinking through the birth process – and putting your thoughts on paper – will help you be ready for the big day.

Practicing yoga during pregnancy can improve flexibility, lessen aches and lower stress and may even make labor easier.

10 / Natural Remedies

for Pregnancy Woes Heartburn, nausea, itchy skin and more are common problems during pregnancy.

Try ginger and other natural solutions.

12 / Do You Want a Doula?

Doulas provide physical and emotional support for a mom-to-be during pregnancy and beyond.

Find out why a doula might be right for you.

18 / Finding the Right

32 / Baby, Do We

Have Fun Do something active with your baby. Atlanta Baby has found the best “mommy and me” programs for you to try.

Hospital For You! When choosing a hospital to give birth, expectant parents weigh a lot of factors.

Atlanta Baby did the research to help you compare what each hospital offers.

34 / Resource Guide

22 / Aah to Zzzs

36 / Baby’s First Toys Atlanta Baby picks four great toys for infants, plus a grab-and-go toy tote for Mom and Dad.

Prepare for a whole lot of surprises as you get ready for baby.

26 / Don’t Bust

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Need photos, child care, a pediatrician and more? Our guide can help.

Your Budget The cost of diapers, baby formula, breast pumps and baby clothes and gear adds up. Here’s how to save without scrimping on quality.

30 / Scoping Out

Childcare Finding childcare that works for you and your baby takes a little sleuthing.

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BABY atlantaparent.com

l CONTRIBUTING

EDITOR Amanda Miller Allen

l PUBLISHER

Liz White

l ASSOCIATE

Laura Powell

PUBLISHER

l EDITORIAL

ART DIRECTOR Sheri Taylor-Emery

l ADVERTISING

SALES Amy Smith Carolyn Haushalter

How to Reach Us 770-454-7599 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, GA 30342

Atlanta Baby

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Books to Give your Family a Good Start Getting ready for baby, then preparing for a smooth transition after baby arrives, are the first challenges that confront new parents-to-be. These books offer sound advice from the experts and from parents who’ve been there. n Pregnancy,

The Beginner’s Guide

by DK Publishing (DK Publishing, $20) This step-by-step guide will help first-time parents navigate the nine months of pregnancy, and prepare for the early challenges of parenthood. It’s full of practical advice, including what a sensible mom chooses for baby’s first wardrobe. n The Natural

Pregnancy Book

by Aviva Jill Romm (Ten Speed Press, $17.99) Moms-to-be looking for a holistic approach to pregnancy will find it in this book, now in its third printing.

Dr. Romm, a physician and homebirth midwife and herbalist, covers everything from natural remedies and herbs that promote wellness during pregnancy to a nutritious diet, exercise and emotional well-being. n The Attachment Pregnancy,

the Ultimate Guide to Bonding with Your Baby

by Laurel Wilson and Tracy Wilson Peters (Adams Media, $15.99) The best opportunity for parents to have a positive influence on their children is during pregnancy and the child’s first years. The authors, both experts in pregnancy and early child development, guide expectant parents with advice on nurturing care.

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n From Dude to Dad, the Diaper

Dude Guide to Pregnancy

by Chris Pegula, with Frank Meyer (Penguin Books, $15) As the book cover says, guys will get “the real-deal essentials on pregnancy, birthing and parenthood, and how it’s okay to be scared out of your mind.” The book gives soon-to-be dads a blueprint on what to expect before and after birth, when the “real adventure” begins. Moms-to-be will appreciate the author’s emphasis on men being thoughtful partners during pregnancy and caring fathers and husbands afterward. n The Newborn Sleep Book

by Dr. Lewis Jassey and Dr. Jonathan Jassey (Penguin Books, $15) The authors, brothers and pediatricians, offer a step-by-step guide to ensure a newborn – and his parents – will sleep through the night by the time the infant is a month old. The Jassey method is safe and straightforward and helps parents guide their child to a good night’s rest. n Feeding Your Baby, Day by Day

by Fiona Wilcock (DK Publishing, $22) Learn about the nutritional needs of young children, from infants to preschool with this easy-to-digest guide, including tips on what to buy at the supermarket and what to leave on the shelves (skip the high-insugar fruit juices!). The book includes more than 200 easy recipes and day-by-day meal planners.

– Amanda Miller Allen atlantaparent.com

• Small, nurturing learning environment where children matter most • Passionate teachers providing active, developmentally appropriate lessons • Weekly instruction in music, Spanish, PE, art, library and interactive technology • NAEYC, GAC and SACS Accredited • PreK - 8th school program Inspiring Students with the Passion to Excel Visit us at www.mcginniswoods.org • 770-664-7764 • 5380 Faircroft Drive • Alpharetta, GA 30005

Creating an Effective Birth Plan

Y

ou’ve been to countless appointments, picked out the pediatrician, prepared the nursery, packed the hospital bag … but have you created a birth plan?

A birth plan is a personalized list for your ideal labor and delivery scenario. Keep in mind when you’re drafting your plan that it’s just a plan.

In fact, Teresa Howard, a certified doula and childbirth educator who owns Labor of Love Doula & Childbirth Services based in Lawrenceville, half-jokingly tells moms-to-be, “Do the birth plan in pencil and carry an eraser!” What she means is that a birth plan is a fluid document, a guideline that might change when a mom’s wishes change or circumstances do.

The birth plan is a communication tool, a “jumping off point” for conversations with your medical team about your preferences, Howard says. It’s best to keep it simple, no more than 10 items, and to have a separate plan for your baby on brightly colored paper. She points out that your birth plan goes in your medical chart, and you need one with “do’s and don’t’s” for your baby that will be placed in the infant’s nursery chart.

The best plan may not be a sheet of paper, she says.

Howard says one mom rolled out a large scroll to hang in her room, and you can be sure her medical team took notice.

Another idea: Write your wishes on pennants and hang them around the room.

– Melanie Wagner and Amanda Allen

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Atlanta Baby

Here are some things to consider when creating a birth plan: ✽ Who do you want to be present at the birth? Your spouse, partner, friends, relatives or doula?

✽ Know who will deliver your baby, and the backup doctor or midwife, just in case.

✽ Know when you should go to the hospital (immediately if

you are Group B strep positive or when your water breaks).

✽ How will you labor? Walking, birthing bed, sitting in a chair, rocking on a big ball, a water birth?

✽ Which pain relief would you like administered? An epidural or spinal block, acupressure, no pain medication?

✽ Would you like to push instinctively or be coached on when to push and for how long?

✽ Do you want your partner to help “catch” the baby? Do

you want him or her to cut the umbilical cord? Do you want to hold your baby right away?

✽ Do you want all newborn procedures

to take place in your presence? Do you want your baby to be in the room with you at all times?

✽ Do you want to breastfeed only, formula feed only or a combination?

✽ Do you want your baby boy circumcised at the hospital, at a later date or not at all?

atlantaparent.com

The Hospital Bag

This is one bag you don’t want to be packing at the last minute.

Here’s our guide to packing your bag for the hospital.

Notebook and pen (or laptop): You may want to make notes for later.

Music: Bring an iPod or CDs (and a portable CD player if your room isn’t equipped).

Makeup and toiletries: You’ll feel better in lip-gloss.

Going home outfits: Take some stretchy postpregnancy clothes for you and a soft cotton outfit for baby, with an adjustable hat and coordinated blanket.

Nursing bra: Get familiar with how it works beforehand. Bring lanolin nipple cream if hosptial doesn’t provide it.

Sanitary napkins and oversized panties: The hospital will supply pads, but you might prefer your own brand.

Electronics: Cameras, phones, batteries and chargers will keep you connected with family and friends.

Robe and slippers: You’l need them for hospital hallways. Take a nightgown, if you’re not required to wear hospital gowns.

And, don’t forget the comfy socks.

Snacks and treats: Pack something to eat for hubby during labor and for you during recovery.

Contact information: Type up your medical and home information, plus phone lists of family and friends; include hospital paperwork, insurance and ID cards.

A diaper bag will become a necessity after baby arrives. Consider splurging on a PacaPod Diaper Bag to help keep you organized and spend less time digging for diaper cream. This bag has two hidden compartments that can easily be removed from the bag for smaller trips: an insulated food pod and a diaper changing supplies pod. PacaPod’s come in different styles and fashions, including bags for dad. Starts at $120. Pacapod.com

✽ Reach

Today’s New Moms and Momsto-be!

Call today to advertise: 770-454-7599

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Magazines or books: You and your husband might spend a lot of time waiting.

How do children learn?

We’d like to find out – and you and your child can help!

Currently seeking families with babies to school-age children to participate in fun, game-like studies. Each study is usually a brief, one-time visit and you are with your child at all times. We study language, learning, memory and how children understand space and numbers. Children receive a small gift as thanks for participating.

For more information, call 404-727-7432 or visit: www.psychology.emory.edu/childstudycenter Atlanta Baby

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Ginger, Pumpkin and More Natural Remedies Can Relieve Common Pregnancy Ailments

by Sarah Lindsey

Glowing skin, doubled cup-size, and shiny hair are commonly touted as side effects of pregnancy. But other pregnancy symptoms usually are kept on the quiet, such as heartburn, nausea and constipation – all the things no one ever really talks about when mentioning the lovely glow. These simple, natural remedies will take care of common pregnancy ailments, and you can find them all at your grocery store.

Constipation Your gestating body experiences an increase in progesterone, which causes digestion to slow down and intestinal muscles to relax. Also, your growing baby applies pressure to your lower abdomen and intestines, which can result in a fecal blockage. Vitamin supplements are also known to cause constipation, especially if the doctor prescribes that you take several together (such as iron, calcium, and other prenatal vitamins.)

The best solution for constipation is to avoid it in the Remedy first place. Do this by staying hydrated (drink at least eight cups of water daily), eating a well-balanced diet (full of fruits, veggies and whole grains), and getting plenty of exercise.

If it’s already too late, then try drinking a glass of prune juice, increasing your fiber and fluid intake, and taking a warm bath.

Heartburn Hormonal variations, such as the increase in progesterone, are to blame for that horrible burning sensation in your throat and chest.

The valve that normally prevents stomach acid from backing up into the esophagus relaxes, causing irritation. As your baby grows, an increasing amount of pressure is placed on your stomach and intestines, thereby passing stomach acids into your esophagus and causing heartburn.

Ginger, ginger and ginger. Try brewing a nice, hot cup of tea. If Remedy you find warm drinks difficult to stomach, then consider a cold glass of ginger ale. You could also try snacking on ginger candy or ginger snaps. Another option is to take a papaya supplement with meals.

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Morning Sickness and Nausea While no one really knows what causes “morning sickness” or nausea, it is likely a result of rapidly increasing hormones. An enhanced sense of smell and a sensitive stomach also contribute to the problem. Some women experience nausea as a direct result of taking prenatal vitamins.

A simple switch from taking your vitamin supplements in the morning to taking them at night can sometimes solve the problem Remedy because by the time the queasiness kicks in, you will already be snoozing. The remedies for curing heartburn – ginger and papaya – also work wonders for curing morning sickness.

Emily Streich, a certified professional midwife and an instructor at Bastyr University, says that if you are vomiting, fluid replacement and electrolyte replacement is important. An alternative to Gatorade is coconut water, which can be found in many natural food and grocery stores. Sucking on ice cubes made of coconut water or weak red raspberry leaf tea can also help nausea while replacing some lost electrolytes.

Diarrhea While some women struggle with constipation throughout their pregnancies, you might experience the opposite extreme. This could be caused by an increase in exercise, diet changes, or even prenatal vitamins.

While these suggestions don’t make diarrhea go away, they will help you through the nasty experience. Plenty of water is necessary Remedy to keep you from getting dehydrated. Put down your pickles and ice cream and start eating the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce and toast.) Streich says, “Pumpkin is also a veggie that contains a lot of fiber and can be very good at firming stools, and finally, yogurt contains many good probiotic bacteria which can help the digestive system.”

Hemorrhoids Hemorrhoids, blood vessels that become swollen, most often appear as a result of straining due to constipation.

“Trying to keep stools soft is the key to not worsening [hemorrhoids], so make sure there is adequate fiber and water in Remedy the diet, and stop processed foods,” Streich says. Applying chilled witch hazel packs or soaking in a warm sitz bath can help alleviate the pain. Streich suggests holding a (cool) black tea bag on the area, which soothes and helps shrink the swollen blood vessels. You could also cut a potato in half and hold it on the area for the same effect.

Stock Up! Take this list with you to the supermarket and buy these much-needed remedies. ✽ Constipation: Ginger ✽ Heartburn, Nausea: Ginger, papaya ✽ Nausea: Coconut water, red raspberry leaf tea ✽ Diarrhea: Yogurt, pumpkin ✽ Hemorrhoids: Black tea, potato ✽ Itchy skin: Flaxseed, fatty fish such as wild caught salmon, anchovies and sardines. ✽ Yeast infection: Yogurt, sauerkraut

atlantaparent.com

Ginger – the Superfood Studies have shown ginger to be effective in relieving nausea and morning sickness. Try these ways to add ginger into your diet: ✽ Use fresh grated ginger in cooking, (especially good in stirfry) ✽ Drink tea made from simmering fresh ginger in water for 10-20 minutes ✽ Use powdered ginger in baking or cooking ✽ Take ginger capsules

Yeast Infection Due to higher estrogen levels during pregnancy, your vagina produces more glycogen, which creates a breeding ground for yeast.

Increase your dietary intake of foods containing Remedy live-active yogurt cultures (such as cottage cheese, yogurt and Kefir milk.)

Streich says that miso, kimchi and sauerkraut contain beneficial bacteria as well. Yeast feeds on sugar, so reduce your sugar intake while battling a yeast infection.

Itchy Skin Higher estrogen levels and stretched skin are at the root of your constant itch.

The best way to turn off the itch is to add more Remedy EFAs (essential fatty acids) to your diet. Streich says, “These can be in the form of fish oils from fatty fish that are low in heavy metals and toxins such as sardines, wild salmon and anchovies, or a plant-based source such as flaxseed or flax oil.”

Eating the right foods can prevent most of these ailments from even occurring. Streich notes the importance of maintaining a healthy and varied diet since it is “the building blocks used to grow a baby, and keep the mother strong and healthy through the pregnancy, birth, and beyond.”

Atlanta Baby

11

Your Birth Team: Do You Want a Doula?

by Jan Pierce

Your doctor, your husband or partner and you, that’s your birth team. Your doctor will check on you when you enter the birth site and several times as labor progresses. There may be a nurse or two popping in and out, but for the most part you will have a lot of time on your own. A doula is your personal labor coach, a non-medical assistant to provide physical and emotional support during the birth journey.

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What Is a Doula?

The word doula comes from ancient Greek and meant female slave or woman’s servant. Women have served one another in childbirth for many centuries with remarkable results. But a doula is not a traditional midwife. A doula’s sole responsibility is to coach and support the mother at each and every stage of the birth experience.

In the United States, the Doulas of North America was founded in 1992, and since then many thousands of doulas have been trained and certified. Training varies from state to state, but usually includes several days of seminars which provide a detailed understanding of the physiology of birth, observations of labors and births, and courses on breastfeeding and post natal care.

What Are the Benefits?

Studies have shown a positive effect of doula care on the birthing process.

Deliveries tend to be shorter and easier. There are fewer C-sections, less medication taken during labor and a more satisfying experience enjoyed by the mother.

Consulting a doula might help women know which questions to ask as they consider their birth plan, says Tara Thompson, a certified doula and owner of North Atlanta Pregnancy Massage & Wellness (formerly Tara’s Touch Massage and Doula Services) in Alpharetta and Roswell. “You want to ask a lot of questions and not just expect your provider to tell you everything about their practice,” she says. For instance, the frequency with which a physician performs a C-section or episiotomy is important because those procedures can lead to complications or a longer recovery for mom.

Thompson specializes in pregnancy massage and as a labor doula, but other doulas may tend to the mother before and after delivery. In these cases, they may be able to assist mothers on bed rest before delivery, answer birth questions and address any fears. Doulas who provide post-natal care often visit the home to prepare simple meals, advise on feeding and care of baby and even care for the child or children, while the new mother takes a break.

Companionship is one of the benefits of using a doula. atlantaparent.com

Goals of the Doula Experience Doulas are women with a strong sense of nurture and compassion.

They believe in the beauty of the birthing process and know it’s a life-shaping experience for the mother and father. The doula strives to:

✽ Build a relationship with the mother before the birth ✽ Develop a birth plan in line with the mother’s desires ✽ Keep the mother safe and comfortable during labor ✽ Provide physical assistance and comfort (massage, positioning, sips of water) ✽ Act as an advocate for the mother ✽ Be available to help the mother make good decisions related to the birth ✽ Offer continuous support ✽ Rejoice with the team when the baby is born If you make the decision to hire a doula for your birth experience, you’ll want to do some research and ask important questions.

Here are some questions you’ll want to ask before conducting interviews:

✽ What training have you had? ✽ What services do you provide? ✽ What are your fees? ✽ Are you available during my due date window? ✽ What is your philosophy of childbirth? ✽ Are you available for prenatal and postnatal care?

Pregnancy, labor and delivery are unique, life-changing experiences. Consider your goals for your own personal birth experience and decide whether you want a doula on your birth team.

Resources ✽ American Pregnancy

Association can help you find a doula in your area at americanpregnancy.org/members/ doulas or call 800-672-2296.

✽ DONA

International, an organization that certifies doulas, offers information and a blog at dona.org.

✽ The Doula

Book by Marshall H. Klaus, Phyliss Klaus and John Kennell (Da Capo Lifelong Books, 2012)

✽ The Doula

Advantage by Rachel Gurevich (Three Rivers Press, 2012)

YOUR DIRECTORY OF

BIRTH PROFESSIONALS Including doulas, childbirth educators, chiropractors, photographers, midwives & more.

We offer monthly educational events, including Desserts & Doulas, Meet The Midwives and a Dad's Panel.

Check out our website for event details. www.GaBirthNetwork.com

atlantaparent.com

Atlanta Baby

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Feeling Stressed as Pregnancy Progresses?

Try Yoga Staying fit helps moms-to-be lessen the aches and discomfort that come with pregnancy and increases the chances of a healthy birth.

Doctors often recommend low-impact exercise for expectant moms, and a good option is yoga, which improves flexibility and lowers stress.

Of course, check with your doctor before starting any exercise program, but if you’re intrigued by the idea of yoga, read on. Amy Griffith, a certified prenatal yoga instructor and star of a new workout DVD, Active Prenatal Yoga, offers these tips on yoga’s benefits and how to get started.

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Q.

How is yoga beneficial during pregnancy?

Yoga is not just about gaining strength and flexibility, and finding calm in moments of stress, it also helps slow down our busy lives. Prenatal yoga is a very safe form of exercise. It uses props to support the pregnant woman as baby grows, and the mother can maintain the standard yoga poses but in a modified way. Prenatal yoga also teaches the powerful connection of breath and movement, encouraging the woman to let go of tension trigger points in her body. All of these elements combine to cultivate a deeper understanding of how the woman’s body moves and what she can do to relax in an uncomfortable situation, both physically and mentally. Many of the elements of a prenatal yoga class can be utilized by the mother as she moves through labor and delivery, including poses to ease labor pains, breathing techniques and meditation. atlantaparent.com

Q.

How will prenatal yoga help prepare me for labor?

Q.

What if I’ve never done yoga before?

There are modifications for a gentler practice or for those mommas who are new to yoga. It’s a good idea to follow third trimester modifications in particular until you feel comfortable adding more challenge to your practice. Move slowly during the transitions between poses.

Trust your body and listen to it if you need to come out of a pose or simply take a break.

Q.

Can I practice yoga in my first trimester?

Some schools will say to rest during your first trimester as your body adjusts to this new state. Others say it is perfectly fine to continue your exercise program as you begin your pregnancy.

Personally, I always needed a bit of exercise to help me feel better. I certainly took many naps and rested when I needed to, but I enjoyed maintaining and modifying my yoga practice during my first trimester. As long as there is no medical reason to stop your practice, it is an individual preference.

Q.

How long throughout my pregnancy can I practice yoga?

Again, as long as there are no medical contraindications, you can practice yoga up until baby arrives!

Obviously your practice will be very different than it was in the beginning of your pregnancy, you will learn to instinctively trust your body and how it needs to move. There are many modifications we can take during the third trimester to accommodate our growing baby. You may choose to simply stretch or meditate as you await baby’s birth day. Allowing yourself to slow down and find those moments of quiet is a yoga practice. It is not only physical poses. Listen to your inner voice, you will be amazed how it guides you throughout the final weeks and days of your pregnancy.

atlantaparent.com

In my opinion, this is one of the best reasons to practice prenatal yoga.

As we physically move on our mats, we are not only gaining strength and increasing flexibility, we are becoming very aware of how our body moves and what helps us to feel good. We recognize that we have an incredible strength within us, even as baby grows and our bodies change. We connect in the most amazing way to the power of our breath, recognizing how it can create a sense of calm and peace throughout our bodies, yet it provides us power when we need it. Gaining a greater understanding of your body and trusting that it is designed to grow and birth your baby is one of the most amazing gifts you can receive from your prenatal yoga practice.

Q.

What poses can I do to alleviate sciatica?

Prenatal Yoga Classes Breathe deep and relax, Atlanta Baby has put together a list of locations in metro Atlanta for prenatal yoga! Most locations offer drop in classes or you can sign up for a series of classes.

✽ Decatur Yoga and Pilates 431 West Ponce de Leon Ave., Decatur. 404-377-4899. decaturhotyoga.com

✽ Lime Tree Yoga Studio

659 Auburn Ave. #270 Atlanta.

404-368-2328.limetreeyoga.com

✽ Oh Baby Fitness

30 Locations. ohbabyfitness.com

✽ Peachtree Yoga Center 6050 Sandy Springs Cir., Atlanta.

404-847-9642. peachtreeyoga.com

A growing baby and shifting pelvis can cause the sciatic nerve to be compressed. Deep hip stretches such as pigeon, or cow face pose may help to relieve some tension in this area.

Chiropractic adjustments, massage or acupuncture may also be helpful.

Unfortunately for some women, relief from sciatica does not happen until baby shifts or is born.

Q.

Where can I find props to use during my yoga practice?

Many yoga studios will also sell blocks and straps. If you only purchased one prop, I would recommend buying blocks. You can get creative by using a towel or belt as a strap, a blanket from home, and one or two supportive pillows in place of a bolster.

Find more information about yoga and pregnancy at amygriffithworkout.com

Q. Atlanta Baby

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HypnoBirthing You Will Learn Happy everything you need to know to achieve a Babies safer, easier, and more ®

A Celebration of Life

comfortable birth

Natural Childbirth Education • Prepare your mind and body for birthing • Learn gentle and effective birthing techniques • Create your Birth Plan • And much, much more

Group Sessions, Private Sessions & Additional Services Available

404-434-8757 • hypnobirthinghappybabies.com

Serving Atlanta, Tucker, Sandy Springs, Smyrna/Vinings and Gainesville

BabyBits

by Amanda Miller Allen

When Will Baby be Born?

New guidelines may help doctors and moms-to-be determine more accurately when a baby might be born, though not the exact date.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine endorsed the new rules, which rely on using a high-quality ultrasound during a woman’s first trimester to determine the age of the fetus and the birthdate.

Previously, doctors calculated a woman’s due date by adding 280 days to the first day of the mom-to-be’s last menstrual period. The new rules say if that date, and the date suggested by the first trimester ultrasound differ, the ultrasound is more accurate.

Even with new technology, the due date is still an estimate and most women don’t deliver on that day.

Specializing in the Detection and Treatment of Pediatric Digestive Disorders

If your child is suffering from digestive issues, you want expert, personal care from an experienced physician. At Atlanta Gastroenterology’s Pediatric Adolescent Division, Board Certified pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Nirav Patel treats infants, children, ‘tweens and teens for every type of digestive and liver condition, including: • Abdominal Pain • Lactose Intolerance • Constipation/Diarrhea • Eosinophilic Esophagitis • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Hepatitis/Liver Disease

• Feeding Difficulties • Celiac Disease • Crohn’s Disease • Ulcerative Colitis • Acid Reflux • Colic

5445 Meridian Mark Road NE | Suite 490 Conveniently located next to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite

For Appointments

404.843.6320 www.atlantagastro.com/pediatrics AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia.

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Atlanta Baby

More Reasons to Breastfeed Babies who are breastfed are less likely to develop sinus, throat or ear infections later in childhood, a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found.

Six years after an infant feeding study, researchers interviewed about 1,300 mothers who had participated, and asked how often their child had visited a doctor in the past year and for what illnesses.

Researchers found that 15 percent of breastfed children had sinus infections, compared with 22 percent of bottle-fed kids. The numbers for throat infections had similar results, 24 percent for breastfed kids vs. 30 percent for bottle-fed, and for ear infections, 25 percent vs. 28 percent. atlantaparent.com

✽ Spotlight on baby

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Special Advertising Page

Arbor Montessori School

Dental Staff School

Fo u n d e d i n 1970 , Arbor is one of the largest and oldest Montessori schools in the Southeast, ser v ing 305 students from ages 18 months to 14 years.

The foundation of the Montessori program is the Toddler Program which takes advantage of the toddler’s natural drive to act independently.

In a small group of 12 children, the toddlers can learn from and help each other under the careful guidance of two teachers. The daily schedule is both simple and predictable, in keeping with the way children at this age experience the passing of time.

Activities include dance, singing, stories, reading, playtime, art and gardening. Toilet training is also part of the curriculum.

Arbor is one of only two Montessori schools in Georgia that are accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI), SACS and SAIS. Register for an information session and tour by calling 404-3219304 or register on-line at www.ArborMontessori.org. Sessions run November – February. Open house is January 24, 2015. Arbor Montessori School, 2998 LaVista Road, Decatur. 404-321-9304.

Dental Staff School is a post secondary career school offering hands-on, skill focused, dental career training. The mission is to provide practical and affordable lifelong learning opportunities for dental health care professionals with educational activities that aim to increase knowledge, skills, enhance practice performance, and improve the health status of patients. The philosophy of the Dental Staff School is based on a belief that people can be trained in a relatively short period of time provide you focus on the critical skills to enter the world of professional Dental Assisting. The course is developed by experienced Dentists and experienced practicing Dental Assistants working in the dental community every day. The Dental Staff School has a national accreditation through National Accreditation of Colleges and Schools. The course is dedicated to hands-on experience with modern equipment in a high-tech dental office. This ten week, part-time course is designed to provide training for the student who would like to enter the workforce as a Dental Assistant. Upon completion of the Program, each student will receive a Certificate for Dental Assisting, state certifications for dental radiology and safety, and a Red Cross CPR certificate. For more information, please visit www.DentalStaffSchool.com or call 678-819-3919.

The Duluth Montessori School

Emory University Child Study Center

The Duluth Montessori School is celebrating its 30th Anniversary of providing the highest level of AMI Montessori education for children to develop long-term relationships with peers and teachers in a caring community that fosters self-esteem, independence, respect for others, self-discipline, cooperation and the love of learning. Children are grouped together in the Toddler Community from ages 14-months to 36-months, in the Primary Community from ages three to six, in the Lower Elementary Community from ages six to nine, in the Upper Elementary Community from ages nine to twelve and in the Adolescent Community from ages twelve to fifteen. In this way, every child experiences a cycle of introduction, familiarity and leadership.

Children are exposed to the real world of facts and experiences, while self-discipline, cooperation, independence and respect for the rights of others are stressed. Accredited by AMI, The Duluth Montessori School holds the prestige of being THE ONLY authentic Montessori School in our area. The Duluth Montessori School is now enrolling children between 14-months and 3 ½ years of age. Please come see the difference!

To schedule a tour at one of our two locations: 2997 Main Street, 770-476-9307; 1768 Old Peachtree Road, Duluth, 678-474-9967 please call or visit www.duluthmontessori.com

How do children learn and grow? How do they think and remember? How do they change as they grow older? These are some of the questions that Emory University Child Study Center is constantly asking...and you and your child can be part of uncovering new answers!

The center invites Atlanta area families to participate in studies focused on language, learning, memory. It also investigates the role that brain development plays. Emory faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate students conduct research studies on each of these fascinating areas.

The Child Study Center studies how children learn and develop by watching and interacting with them and their parents. Each study is carefully planned to be fun and interesting. It usually involves one or two sessions, and typically takes place at the Emory University campus in a comfortable setting. Parents with newborns through school-age children are encouraged to participate.

Parents may stay during the session and play with their children and observe the study sessions. Parking is free and convenient.

If you are interested in participating please, visit www.psychology. emory.edu/childstudycenter or contact the center at childstudies@ emory.edu or 404-727-7432. The center will contact you when an appropriate study becomes available.

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Where Will You Have Your

F

rom taking your prenatal vitamins to getting the nursery ready, it seems like there are a million things to do before the baby comes. One of your first decisions as a parent is where to deliver your infant. ✿ It’s important to consider which hospital is the best fit.

Expectant parents should make a list of questions to ask the staff and get a better feel for what each facility has to offer. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of 22 metro- area hospitals, including birthing rooms and birth rates.

Whether it’s your first, your second, or even your fifth baby, hospital services are always changing. ✿ We encourage you to take advantage of hospital tours and find out which hospitals are convenient to your home. Be sure to figure out your insurance details beforehand and learn the policies for visitation and guests in the delivery room. ✿ Being prepared will lead to a better experience for you and your baby.

Private (P) Mat. Beds

Birthing Rooms LDR/LDRP*

Births Per Month

C-Section Rate

Maternity Tours

Atlanta Medical Center 303 Parkway Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 404-265-4000. atlantamedcenter.com

30-P

13 LDR

251

12.9%

Call 1-877-228-3638 to register.

DeKalb Medical 2701 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur, GA 30033 404-501-2229. dekalbmedicalcenter.org

52-P

18 LDR

420

19% Primary 16% Repeat

Maternity Tours 404-501-9355

Eastside Medical Center 1700 Medical Way, Snellville, GA 30078 770-979-0200. eastsidemedical.org

22-P

13 LDR

128

34%

Second and fourth Thursdays at 7 p.m.

800-242-5662

Emory Johns Creek Hospital 6325 Hospital Parkway, Johns Creek, GA 30097 678-474-7000. emoryjohnscreek.com

12-P

8 LDR

80-100

21%

Thurs. at 6 p.m. and Sat. at 10 a.m.

Visit website.

Hospital

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Baby?

Compiled by Hayley Markowitz

Private (P) Mat. Beds

Birthing Rooms LDR/LDRP*

Births Per Month

C-Section Rate

Maternity Tours

39-P 8 Antepartum

11 LDR

321

29%

1st, 2nd & 3rd Thurs. at 6:30 & 7:30 p.m. and on request. 404-778-7777

Grady Health System 80 Jesse Hill Jr. Dr., Atlanta, GA 30303 404-616-1000. gradyhealth.org

27-P

12 LDR

257

29%

Daily at noon & evenings by appt.

Call 404-616-2229

Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion 550 Medical Center Blvd., Lawrenceville, GA 30045 678-442-3600. gwinnettmedicalcenter.org

37-P

19 LDR

400

33%

Tues. at 6:30 & 7:30 p.m.

Sat. 11 a.m. & noon 678-312-5000

37-P 8 Antepartum

18 LDR

310

17% Primary 15% Repeat

Tues. evenings and Sat. mornings.

770-219-1476

North Fulton Hospital 3000 Hospital Blvd., Roswell, GA 30076 770-751-2500. northfultonregional.com

20-P

6 LDR

110-130

12.3% Primary 11.2% Repeat

Every other Tues. alternating with every other Thurs.

770-751-2660

Northside Hospital-Atlanta 1000 Johnson Ferry Rd., Atlanta, GA 30342 404-845-5555. northside.com

200-P

42 LDR

1,203

40%

By appt.

404-845-5555 or website.

Northside Hospital-Cherokee 201 Hospital Rd., Canton, GA 30114 770-720-5300. northside.com

10-P

8 LDRP

90

34%

By appt.

404-845-5555 or website.

Northside Hospital-Forsyth 1200 Northside Forsyth Dr., Cumming, GA 30041 770-844-3200. northside.com

24-P

6 LDR

225

37%

By appt.

404-845-5555 or website.

Piedmont Atlanta Hospital 1968 Peachtree Rd. NW, Atlanta, GA 30309 404-605-5000. piedmont.org

29-P

16 LDR

295

35.9%

Sun. 3 p.m. (except holidays) Register online.

Piedmont Fayette Hospital 1255 Highway 54 West, Fayetteville, GA 30214 770-719-7000. piedmont.org

24-P

10 LDR

200

30%

Every other Sun. at 2 p.m.

Every other Thurs. at 6 p.m.

404-605-3599 to register.

Piedmont Henry Hospital 1133 Eagles Landing Pkwy., Stockbridge, GA 30281 678-604-1000. piedmont.org

18-P

12 LDR

192

28.9%

Call 678-604-1040 to register.

Piedmont Mountainside Hospital 1266 Georgia 515, Jasper, GA 30143 706-692-2441. piedmont.org

7-P

4 LDR

27

32%

Tours 7 days a week 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Call 706-301-5246 to register.

Piedmont Newnan Hospital 745 Poplar Rd., Newnan, GA 30265 770-400-1000. piedmont.org

14-P

5 LDR

100

31%

Tours first Sat. of each month at 10 a.m.

Call 770-400-2220 to register.

Rockdale Medical Center 1412 Milsted Ave., Conyers, GA 30012 770-918-3677. rockdalemedicalcenter.org

29-P

17 LDR

150

30%

Offering tours twice a month.

Sign up online or call 1-800-424-3627

Southern Regional Women’s Life Center 11 Upper Riverdale Rd., Riverdale, GA 30274 770-991-8200. southernregional.org

40-P

14 LDR

255

27%

Wed. 5 p.m. & Sun. 3 p.m.

770-991-8246

WellStar Cobb Hospital 3950 Austell Rd., Austell, GA 30106 770-732-4000. wellstar.org

46-P

20 LDR

305

35%

By appt.

770-956-7827

WellStar Douglas Hospital 8954 Hospital Dr., Douglasville, GA 30134 770-949-1500. wellstar.org

9-P

6 LDRP

40

33%

By appt.

770-920-6240

457

35%

By appt.

770-956-7827

Hospital Emory University Hospital Midtown 550 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 404-778-7777. emoryhealthcare.org

Northeast Georgia Medical Center 743 Spring St. NE, Gainesville, GA 30501 770-219-9000. nghs.com

WellStar Kennestone Hospital 58-P 21 LDR 677 Church St., Marietta, GA 30060 770-793-5000. wellstar.org

The information on this chart has been provided by each hospital. *Labor, Delivery, Recovery, Postpartum Rooms

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20

Atlanta Baby

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✽ Spotlight on baby

✽ ✽

Special Advertising Page

Families Of Children Under Stress (FOCUS)

HypnoBirthing® Happy Babies

When a baby is diagnosed with a lifelong disability or serious medical condition, parents just want to kiss and make it better. This can be a scary and emotional time, and some parents may be so overwhelmed by the medical terms and by their emotions that they really do not understand; they might not even know the questions to ask! Parents often feel relieved to know that they are not alone.

Families Of Children Under Stress (FOCUS) offer comfort and encouragement and is there to help – to listen and cry, to inform and educate, and to offer programs for the families and the baby with special needs through our support groups and programs. Seek support so you can have the information and tools to help your baby and to help meet your emotional needs.

FOCUS offers support groups all over metro Atlanta; a newsletter with stories by families about their experiences and information about equipment and resources; an education conference; community respite programs; and several annual activities for the entire family.

FOCUS believes that if your baby has special needs, then your family has special needs – FOCUS cares. If your child has a physical, cognitive or developmental disability, please call FOCUS at 770-2349111 or visit www.focus-ga.org.

Bringing Baby Home: Even the best of relationships can experience strain when a new baby is brought home. It is important to know how to positively manage the stress that comes along with this transition.

At the HypnoBirthing Happy Babies center, new parents have an opportunity to learn how to avoid the pitfalls of new parenthood. In our “Bringing Baby Home” workshop, couples gain a sense of empowerment by learning new skills to: • Prepare for the transition to parenthood, • Maintain relationship satisfaction after having a baby, • Promote positive parent-baby interactions, and • Promote quality involvement for both parents.

Additionally, a clinical trial study confirmed that participants in this type of program reported significantly higher relationship quality, less interpersonal hostility, and noticeably lower maternal post-partum depression and “baby blues” (22.5% compared to 66.5% in the comparison group).

Fo r t h e c u r r e n t w o r k s h o p s c h e d u l e p l e a s e v i s i t www.hypnobirthinghappybabies.com or call 404-434-8757.

MJCCA Preschools

Princeton Lakes Pediatrics

Marcus JCC of Atlanta Preschools offer fulland half-day options for children ages six weeks – Pre-K at two convenient Atlanta locations: Dunwoody and East Cobb. Our facilities are like none other and students have the opportunity to explore our campuses and enjoy swimming and other sports, drama, art, and more, as they challenge and enrich their growing minds.

Through an exceptional NAEYC-accredited program (National Association for the Education of Young Children) – a distinction awarded only to the top 7% of preschools nationwide – your children are given a solid foundation upon which to build a lifetime of learning. Our preschoolers are immersed in a safe and loving environment focused on an innovative, secular preschool curriculum that’s infused with traditional Jewish learning and core values such as honesty, respect, and honor.

In order to prepare children to excel in future educational settings, the MJCCA’s Early Childhood Services department has enhanced its already enriching curriculum to include several additional kindergartenreadiness programs. Graduates take with them the tools necessary for success as they move on to elementary schools of their choice. The MJCCA Sunshine School is also a 3-Star Quality Rated School – only the fourth preschool in the state to rank the highest level of 3 stars!

For information, about the MJCCA and our early childhood offerings please visit atlantajcc.org or call 678.812.4000.

Finding pediatric care for your child that helps them emotionally, mentally, and physically can make a huge impact on your child’s development. That’s the goal at Princeton Lakes Pediatrics. They focus on successfully balancing medical knowledge and compassion to ensure that their patients receive excellent healthcare in an environment that is comfortable and friendly.

Getting your child integrated into a practice that cares primarily for children may put them at ease when it comes to sharing emotional concerns or physical illness, no matter whether they are a toddler or moving into the teenage years. Make sure you look for a practice that takes every measure to work with parents in raising children that live up to their full potential medically, academically, and socially.

Schedule an appointment today for Prenatal Visits, Newborn Care and Immunizations. Two convenient locations in Kennesaw and Atlanta. Their newest office in Kennesaw is now accepting new patients, and Walk-ins are welcome. Schedule an appointment today for the best pediatric care for your child.

Call the Kennesaw office on North Cobb Parkway at 678-483-6880 or the Camp Creek Medical Center office at 404-629-1880. Or visit them at princetonlakespeds.com

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Aah to Zzzs Getting Ready to Welcome Baby

What to expect when you’re expecting?

Prepare for a whole lot of surprises.

Here’s our take, from A to Z.

a b c d e f g 22

Atlanta Baby

Aah – that’s a sigh of relief and an exclamation of joy when baby arrives. Moms-to-be are anxious that their baby will be healthy and most of the 4 million born annually in the United States are, so relax.

Put your baby on his back when he sleeps. Babies who sleep on their stomachs are much more likely to die of sudden infant death syndrome – SIDS. Remember to keep this position for both naps and nighttime sleep.

Babies cry – get used to it. Here are common reasons your little one gets fussy: dirty diaper, hunger, gas, exhausted, sick, bored, colic or just wants to be cuddled.

Diapers: New babies typically soil 8-10 diapers a day. You’ll spend $80 or more a month if you use disposables.

Get enough exercise while you’re pregnant. If you exercised before, continue your program, with modifications if you need them (check with your doctor first). Health guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise a week. Try walking, swimming, water aerobics, Pilates or yoga.

Hello, Flintstone feet! Say goodbye to strappy heels and sexy feet during your pregnancy. Your body is producing and retaining more fluid. But don’t worry; the swelling will go down after you give birth!

Gender. In the U.S., boys are more common than girls, according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The most recent report found 94,232 more boys were born than girls.

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h i j k l m n o p q

According to the Chinese Zodiac, babies born in 2014, the Year of the Horse, are energetic, good with money, fond of travel and independent, but they also crave love and intimacy.

Which immunizations do babies in Georgia need? At birth, hepatitis B. At two months, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTaP), haemophilus influenza type b (Hib), pneumococcal (PPV or PCV), rotavirus and inactivated poliovirus (IPV).

Keep a journal while you’re pregnant to remember the good, the bad, the ugly and the funny. Many moms like to document their growing bumps with monthly photos.

Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that support the bladder, uterus and bowels. Strengthening these muscles can help you prepare for labor and birth. To do a Kegel exercise, imagine you’re trying not to urinate or pass gas without moving your legs, buttocks or abs.

Leaky breasts. Until your body gets used to breastfeeding, many factors can make you spring a leak – hearing your baby cry, looking at his picture or even while you’re sleeping or showering. Plan your outfits accordingly for the first few weeks!

Having multiples? The birthrate for twins has increased 50 percent since 1980, and triplets, quads and higher order multiples have increased at an even higher rate.

What’s in a name? Liam, Noah, Oliver, Aidan (or Aiden, Aden) and Asher were the top boy picks in 2013, according to babynames.com. The top names for girls: Charlotte, Amelia, Olivia, Ava and Aria (or Arya).

Sure you can have an ultrasound. But why not check the accuracy of an old wives tale first? Attach a ring or needle to a thread. Lie down and have someone dangle it over your belly. If it moves in a circular motion, you’re having a girl. Back and forth like a pendulum means it’s a boy.

Pickles. Cheese. Peanut butter. Chocolate. Eggs. Apples.

Bacon. These are the most common foods pregnant women crave.

Queasy? Join the club. Nausea is a hallmark of eight in 10 pregnancies. It generally passes by 14 weeks.

Cont’d on page 24

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Aah to Zzzs: Getting Ready to Welcome Baby

r s t u v w x y z

When you are pregnant and after baby arrives, give yourself permission to rest. Just putting your feet up can relieve stress and discomfort and help you meet any challenge.

Stretch marks can be a downer to the happiest expectant mother. Evidence suggests that daily massage to your stomach, breasts and thighs may help prevent them.

All newborns, even those who look perfectly healthy, get tested. The first test, an Apgar score evaluating a baby’s physical appearance, occurs just after delivery. A heel prick allows doctors to test for a number of genetic disorders.

After your baby is born, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, leaving an umbilical stump that dries up and drops off in about 10 to 21 days. Until then, keep it clean and dry.

Vaginal delivery is the most common and considered the safest type of childbirth. Nevertheless, cesarean section deliveries are at an all-time high in the U.S. and are expected to keep rising, spurred by a rising obesity rate among momsto-be, an increase in multiple birth deliveries, and a reluctance to allow a vaginal birth after a C-section delivery.

For the next 18 years – and beyond, you’ll be worried.

That’s the natural state for moms, whether your baby is yet to be born or 34 years old!

Avoid X-rays to protect your baby from the toxic effects of radiation. What about airport scanners? TSA says full-body scanning technology is safe for pregnant women. However, you can opt for alternative screening that will include a thorough pat down.

If your emotions are like a yo-yo, up one minute, down the next, you are normal. Mood swings, a natural part of your hormonal cycle, escalate during pregnancy. Even so, be on guard if the ups don’t follow the downs. Pregnancy can trigger depression in women genetically predisposed to the disorder.

Get plenty of Zzz’s. Your baby will start sleeping through the night in two-to-three months, if you’re lucky! Then again, many babies are like owls – they like to sleep in the day and stay awake at night.

– Ann Hardie and Melanie Wagner

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Atlanta Baby

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Take a

Seat!

When it comes to choosing a car seat, new parents look for safety and comfort.

Atlanta Baby gives these three seats its top rating.

✽

How you install the seat is just as important as selecting the right seat for your child.

For instructions, visit safecar. gov. You also find a link to a car seat inspection station (often a fire station) near your home to check your installation.

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✽ Baby Trend

Infant Car Seat Your baby will be safe and comfortable with this seat – its adjustable base allows for four recline positions and instantly rotates a baby upright in a crash. The seat, for infants up to 32 pounds, has state-ofthe-art head impact protection and an easy-grip carrying handle. $179.99

✽ Evenflo Platinum

Symphony DLX All-InOne Car Seat The Outlast performance fabric on this car seat promises to absorb hot and cold temperatures to balance your child’s body temperature for a more comfortable ride. It’s easy to install and its Buckle Pockets feature keeps you from digging under the seat for lost buckles. Safety features exceed crash test standards.

The seat converts as your child grows and is rated for 5-110 pounds. $249.99

✽ Graco’s 4ever

4-in-1 Car Seat This car seat converts from a back-facing infant seat for kids up to 40 pounds, to a forward-facing car seat for kids 20-65 pounds, to a high-backed booster seat for kids 30-100 pounds to a backless booster seat for kids up to 120 pounds.

The seat is durable and washable and, of course, safe. $299.99

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25

Baby on a Budget

by Sandra Gordon

From a car seat and crib to diapers and childcare, little ones come with big expenses. In fact, American parents spend an average of $14,000 on their baby’s first year. Try these money-saving strategies. ● Think neutral If you’re planning on having more than one child, register or buy gender-neutral products now so you’ll feel comfortable using that product again for your next baby.

This year, purple is the new pink or blue. You also can’t go wrong with green, red, orange, yellow or silver.

● Try reusable diapers If you use disposable diapers, you can anticipate spending an average of $80 per month per child, for a total cost of around $2,400 from birth to potty training (at around age 2½). In comparison, using cloth/reusable diapers cost $500 or less for a complete stash that you can use for your next baby, too (and your next). Today’s cloth diapers are almost as easy to use as disposables. Just using cloth diapers some of the time can help reduce your diaper overhead. Cloth for Everybum, a nonprofit that started in Georgia (clothforeverybum.org), has a six-month cloth diaper lending program for new moms and offers classes on using cloth diapers.

● Buy products that multitask It pays to buy products that do more than one thing or that can be repurposed later. Opt for a diaper pail that can be converted to a trash can, a “plastic grass” baby bottle drying rack that can also dry your delicate wine glasses, a baby blanket that’s also a nursing cover and a play mat, and a play yard that functions as a mobile changing table and a travel crib. These days, you can even use your cell phone as a baby monitor.

26

Atlanta Baby

● Let insurance pay for the breast pump As a result of the Affordable Care Act, as many as 80 percent of health insurance companies are now covering the cost of a double electric breast pump. Insurance companies don’t have to provide such a premium model for free, but they know it gives moms the best shot at breast feeding success, which ultimately helps reduce medical costs. Call your health insurance company to find out what type of pump you can get and the brand options. Ask whether you have to get the “recommended” pump or if you can choose to purchase one that’s “out of network” and submit the receipt for reimbursement.

● Shop store brands While breast milk is best, store-brand infant formula is a great option for moms who want to formula feed or supplement breast milk with formula. Infant formula is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Consequently, store-brand formulas, such as Walmart’s Parent’s Choice or Target’s Up & Up, must be nutritionally equivalent to name-brand formulas, yet they cost up to 50 percent less. Store-brand formula can save you up to $600 a year.

Try store-brand disposable diapers and wipes, too. The 12-count box of Walmart’s Parent’s Choice, for example, cost 16 cents per diaper compared to 24 cents per diaper for a 117-count package of Huggies. Store brand diapers and wipes aren’t federally regulated so the quality can vary. Experiment until you find a store brand diaper or wipe you like. Online reviews can help narrow the field.

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If you’re planning on having more than one child, register or buy gender-neutral products.

● Join a baby club Many supermarkets, including Kroger, Publix, Save-A-Lot, Shop Rite and Winn-Dixie, plus retailers such as Target and Babies ‘R Us, offer a free baby club. Most tie the store’s rewards card to baby product purchases.

Baby club card holders can typically receive discounts for points they earn by purchasing eligible products, which often include diapers and wipes as well as baby food, formula and baby lotion. To maximize savings, use manufacturer’s and store coupons.

● Get cash back with online shopping Instead of heading directly to an e-commerce site such as Diapers. com, start at a rebate portal, such as Ebates.com. Rebates sites enable you to get cash back on your baby product purchases. The practice, known as spend-to-earn shopping, is akin to entering through a rebate door before proceeding to the e-commerce site you’d normally go to anyway. Ebates.com features over 1,500 online stores, such as Diapers.com, which recently was offering 1.5 percent cash back on purchases. Your rebate/savings can go into your PayPal account or be sent by check.

● Ditch your virtual cart When you’re shopping online for baby items, fill your cart with what you need.

Then leave your shopping cart for a day or so. Retailers can tell when your shopping cart is loaded but idle. Walking away from your cart can buy you time to get discounts or rebates via e-mail that entice you to click the “buy” button. They can be worth the wait.

An exceptional place for your baby and you.

At Bright Horizons, we provide an exceptional place for baby to thrive. Our experienced and nurturing teachers inspire children at every age and stage. Educators and families work together to ensure your baby's needs and potential are being met.

• Flexible scheduling for full-time, part-time and drop-in care • Supportive and strong parent community • Over 98% parent satisfaction rating • An exceptional place for your baby and you Schedule a visit today!

Bright Horizons at Wildwood (770) 933-0530 The Children’s Center at All Saints’ (404) 881-3790 Bright Horizons at Deerfield (678) 393-2991 Bright Horizons at Atlantic Station (404) 815-1903 The Children’s Campus @ Georgia Tech (404) 385-2248 R. Kirk Landon Learning Center (404) 249-1500

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Atlanta Baby

27

Read, Baby, Read It’s never too early to start reading with your child – even when baby thinks a book is a teething toy. Atlanta Baby chose these entertaining books to get you started.

n For

Fun with Baby, Try Let’s Grow Never miss a teachable moment – or a chance to have fun with your baby – with Let’s Grow, a monthly shipment of books and a themed “surprise” tailored to a child’s developmental needs.

The shipments, developed by Highlights for Children for babies up to age 2, also include an eight-page parent guide. Many parents and grandparents will know the company as the publisher of Highlights magazine for 60 years.

As an example, Let’s Take a Bath celebrates the fun of bath time. Little Frog’s Bubble Trouble follows Little Frog as he joins a baby in a bathtub. Boats Afloat is an ode to boats big and small. The keepsake is a Little Frog washcloth puppet. Each shipment is $24.95 plus shipping.

Find more information at highlights.com.

Every Body

n Honk,

Deserves a

MASSAGE! F Pregnancy Massage F Postpartum Massage F Infant Massage Instruction F Labor Doula Services

10 OFF

$

Any Regular-Priced Service When You Mention This Ad (Cannot be combined with other specials) Expires April 30, 2015

28

Atlanta Baby

Honk! Baa, Baa!

by Petr Horacek (Candlewick Press, $7.99) Turn the pages of Honk, Honk! Baa, Baa! and you’ll reach a surprise ending.

The book engages toddlers with sounds and images, such as “Baa, baa says the sheep” accompanied by an image of a fluffy sheep. It’s colorful, well-illustrated and sturdy enough to survive many readings. n The

404-465-3391

1300 Upper Hembree Rd., Roswell www.natlantapregnancy.com Tara@natlantapregnancy.com

I Love You Book

by Todd Parr (Little Brown and Co., $6.99) Babies and children can’t hear “I love you” too often, and this book lets you say it in many unexpected ways. For instance, “I love you when you are stinky” and “I love you when you don’t sleep.” atlantaparent.com

Finding the Right Childcare Center

by Rachael Moshman

Who will care for your child if both parents work is one of the most important decisions parents make for their infants and toddlers. Your child will spend most of his waking hours there, so it’s important to find an environment that is safe and nurturing physically, emotionally and academically.

Start with these eight essentials when searching for the right childcare center.

1

Convenience

2

Cost

3

Do the program’s hours work for your schedule? Is it near your home or office? How long will it take you to get there if there’s an emergency during the day? If your child is still breastfeeding, would you be able to drop in during the day to feed your baby?

While it’s crucial to find a program that fits into your budget, that doesn’t mean you should scrimp on quality. If your dream childcare center is too costly for you, ask about scholarships. Many communities have programs to help working parents with childcare.

Ratios

7

Turnover

8

Policies and Procedures

First Impressions Drop in unannounced to get a feel for a place. Pay close attention to how you’re greeted and what’s going on.

Is it chaotic? Do the children look happy and occupied?

Notice the teachers. How do they interact with the kids?

Are they warm and caring? Do they seem to genuinely like children?

4

Recommendations

5

Cleanliness

30

6

Ask other parents and caregivers who currently use the childcare center about their experiences. Check with the local Better Business Bureau. A quick online search never hurts, either.

A clean environment is essential to keep everyone healthy. Do you notice any foul smells? Teachers should wear gloves for diapering and wash their hands before and after. Procedures should be in place for sanitizing all equipment and toys throughout the day.

Atlanta Baby

In Georgia, one teacher is allowed by law to be alone with 10 2-year-olds. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) recommends a oneto-six ratio for the same age group. The lower the ratio, the more attention your child will receive. The ratio varies depending on the age group. If your childcare center is NAEYC-approved, find out the appropriate NAEYC ratio for your child’s age. Check the website of the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning to learn about Georgia’s health and safety recommendations.

Once you’ve found a childcare center and a teacher you like, you want some assurance the teacher won’t leave two weeks after you enroll your child. Find out the program’s turnover rate and ask the teacher how long she has worked for the center. If teachers frequently leave, they may be unhappy about the way they’re treated or about something happening at the school, which is cause for concern.

Confirm the school is up to date on licensing standards by contacting the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning. Ask to see the center’s policy and procedure handbooks. They should have plans in place for dealing with a wide variety of issues from lice outbreaks to power outages. Ask about the center’s safety procedures. When you visited unannounced, were you able to walk right in without anyone noticing you? That’s a sure sign to look elsewhere.

Choosing a childcare center doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In the end, investigate and then trust your instincts.

atlantaparent.com

Questions You Should Ask:

Make sure you get answers before allowing someone else to watch over your child.

Caregivers

Policies

n Are the childcare providers trained in child development and early education? Do they have any accreditation?

n Are children cared for in small groups and given activities according to their level of development?

n Are you satisfied with the way the caregiver responds to a hurt or unhappy child? n Is there time for caregivers to give individual attention to each child? n Do you feel satisfied with the way toilet training, diapering and discipline are handled in this setting?

Environment n Is the facility bright, clean and cheerful? n Are toys in good condition and washed frequently? n Is there sleeping space with individual beds, cots or mats? n Are you comfortable with the type of food served? n Would you want to come here if you were a child? n Do you think your child will fit in comfortably with the other children?

n Does the daily schedule include active and quiet play, rest time and outdoor activities? n Are the children allowed time and space for individual play? n Do the children have a choice about participating in certain activities? n What happens if your child cannot be picked up on time? n Who has access to your child and why? n Will there be continuity and stability in the child’s life as they transition back and forth from home to a caregiver?

– From the American Academy of Pediatrics and Quality Care For Children

ATLANTA

MONTESSORI

an international school community

Now enrolling children from 8 weeks to 6 years. At Atlanta Montessori our programs promote independence, initiative, confidence, responsibility, strong academics, self-discipline, leadership, and a lifetime love of learning.

Atlanta Montessori Offers: •AMI Accredited Teachers •Multi-Age Classrooms in Peaceful, Respectful, Montessori Prepared Environments •Year-Round School for Infant and Toddler Communities •Multi-Cultural, Multi-Language, Montessori Learning Atmosphere •Extended Day Option and Summer Program

1240 Euclid Avenue • Atlanta, GA 30307 Phone: 404.474.6375 website: www.atlantamontessorischool.org email: info@atlantamontessorischool.org atlantaparent.com

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Babies Just Want to Have Fun! Get out of the house and do something fun and active with your baby. We have gathered a list of the best parent and me classes in metro Atlanta from playgroups to yoga, look no further. n Alliance Theatre: Theatre for the Very Young targets children ages 18 months to 5 years, offering a live performance, plus dance, music, movement and storytelling.

Admission is $10 per person, ages 1 and younger, free. alliancetheatre.org

Jump Start Gymnasium

n Aqua Tots: Its two locations in metro Atlanta offer swim lessons for ages 6 months and older. Prices vary by location and classes per week. n Atlanta History Center: Magic Mondays, designed for ages 18 months to 5 years, includes arts and crafts projects and storytime from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission adults, $6.50; ages 5 and younger, $5.50. atlantahistorycenter.com n The Children’s Museum of Atlanta: Fun activities for infants and their older siblings at a museum that specializes in creative and educational activities.

Admission ages 1 and older, $12.75; younger than 1, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Oh Baby! Fitness

Gymboree

n Fit4Mom: Stroller Strides and Stroller Barre are both a stroller based fitness program for mom and baby. Helps mom tone up while keeping baby happy with songs and activities. $75 registration fee, $75 a month for unlimited Stroller Strides and Stroller Barre classes; $125 for 10 sessions. Fit4mom.com n Gymboree: Gymboree Play & Learn, for ages 0- 5, has two classes for babies – one for ages 0-6 months that explores the senses and another for ages 6-10 months to build strength using slides, ramps and climbers. Free trial class offered. New member fee, $50; One class a week for a month, $69-79. n High Museum of Art: Toddlers and young children can discover art with the museum’s programs for families. On Toddler Thursdays explore the High’s collection through letters, colors, numbers and shapes. Free with admission to the museum. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; ages 5 and younger, free. high.org n Kindermusik: Children up to age 7 have fun and learn with music and movement. The Village and Cuddle & Bounce classes are for newborns to age 18 months. Free trial class; prices vary by location. kindermusik.com

Fit4Mom

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Atlanta Baby

atlantaparent.com

n Jump Start Gymnasium: This Sandy Springs gym offers Just You and Me classes for ages 3 months up to 3 years. One 45 minute class a week for a month, $73; annual registration fee, $30. jumpstartgym.com n The Learning Groove: Four metro Atlanta locations offer music and movement classes for infants to age 4. 10-week session, $165-$175; free demo class; siblings younger than 8 months are free. thelearninggroove.com n The Little Gym: Locations in Alpharetta, Smyrna and Snellville offer parent child gymnastic classes for ages four months up to 3 years. 3 introductory sessions, $40-45; other packages available.

Thelittlegym.com n The Music Class: Fun filled classes of singing, dancing, movement and instrument play for infants through 4 year olds. Parents learn how to enhance their child’s music potential and understand music development. Over 150 classes offered in metro Atlanta. $165 for 10-class session. themusicclass.com/atlanta n Oh Baby! Fitness: Mom and baby can work out in 30 locations in metro Atlanta, with classes such as “Mom & Baby Pilates” and “Stroller Workout.” $18 a class, or packages for less. ohbabyfitness.com n Zoo Atlanta Stroller Cubs: Explore animal exhibits, and meet an animal ambassador up-close during a special introduction to wildlife for ages 0-2 years. Reservations are required. $12 per person includes zoo admission. zooatlanta.org

The Music Class

– Hayley Markowitz

Your child’s future begins now ...

Stepping Stone Montessori offers your infant a warm and secure refuge in a Nido Environment, which translated means nest. Infants learn about the world through touch, sight, smell, taste, and sound. Daily positive experiences create greater confidence and the security needed for exploration and independence.

Stepping Stone’s Nido classes and teachers are prepared to care for your infant with those truths in mind.

• Classrooms invite exploration • Vital Baby Curriculum engages infants through conversation, songs, finger plays, stories and sign language.

• Beautifully landscaped environments provide daily outdoor activities • Cuddles and laughter are offered in abundance every day.

Respect for the child is the cornerstone on which all Montessori principles rest and respect begins in our Nido class at Stepping Stone Montessori.

Call us to learn more: Cumming 770-205-0317 and Sugar Hill 770-614-4310.

atlantaparent.com

Your child’s future begins now...

Enroll Schedule a TourToday Today

6 weeks 6 weeks to 6 years to 6 years

Stepping Stone Montessori Building Great Foundations

In Cumming and Sugar Hill

steppingstonemontessori.com Atlanta Baby

33

Baby Resource Guide Whether you need child care, a preschool, a photographer, a pediatrician or other services, you’ll find it here.

Arbor Montessori School

Dental Staff School

Duluth Montessori School

Toddler program, starting at 18 months, includes dance, singing, stories, reading, playtime, art, gardening and toilet training. 2998 LaVista Road, Decatur.

404-321-9304. arbormontessori.org

What sets us apart from other schools? With Dental Staff School, you can start class at your convenience and begin right away. We’re leading the way with online, interactive classroom that is combined with hands-on class that meets for 10 Saturdays from 8am -5pm. Marietta. 678-819-3919. dentalstaffschool.com

Fully accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) where children learn inside and outside on 11 acres. Ages 14 months to 12 years of age. 2997 Main Street, Duluth, 770-4769307. 1768 Old Peachtree Road, Duluth.

678-474-9967. duluthmontessori.com

Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates / Pediatric & Adolescent Division Specializes in the detection and treatment of pediatric digestive orders including colic and feeding difficulties.

Conveniently located next to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite.

404-843-6320. atlantagastro.com/ pediatrics

Atlanta Montessori School Programs promote independence, initiative, confidence, responsibility, leadership and a love of learning in a Montessori environment for children ages 8 weeks - 6 years. 404-474-6375 atlantamontessorischool.org

Bright Horizons Meeting your child care and early education needs with an engaging, flexible curriculum designed to inspire children at every age and stage. brighthorizons.com

Chi Photography Newborn, Toddler and Family photographer serving Atlanta and surrounding areas. 843-813-0174. chiphotos.com

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Atlanta Baby

✽

Emory Child Study Center The center invites families to participate in game-like studies about how children think and learn. 404-727-7432. psychology.emory.edu/childstudycenter

Georgia Birth Network Free directory of birth professionals, including Doulas, midwives, educators, photographers, lactation consultants, chiropractors and more. Free monthly events. 678-801-6411.

GaBirthNetwork.com

Hanger Clinic Cranial Helmet Band expertise in Buckhead using the latest technology to address infants with abnormal head shape. Walk-ins – Immediate Appointments Available. 404-618-0451. hangerclinic.com

HypnoBirthing Happy Babies Natural Childbirth Education. Learn everything you need to know to achieve a safer, easier and more comfortable childbirth. 404-434-8757. hypnobirthinghappybabies.com

atlantaparent.com

✽ Kennesaw Pediatrics Comprehensive Newborn Care. In-office and home lactation services. Open 7 days a week. 3745 Cherokee St., NW, Ste. 401, Kennesaw. 770-429-1005.

KennesawPediatrics.com

Marcus Autism Center Marcus Autism Center, in conjunction with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and through collaborations with premier academic institutions nationwide, is bringing groundbreaking research and clinical services to children and families affected by autism. To participate in a study call 404-785-7600. Visit marcus.org/ research for more details.

PrepareFirst Baby Proofing The Music Class Fun filled classes of singing, dancing, movement and instrument play. Parents learn how to enrich their child’s music environment, increase music potential and understand music development. Ages birth – six years. Buckhead, Kirkwood, Sandy Springs, Historic Roswell, Toco Hills, Woodstock, Johns Creek, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Smyrna, Suwanee. 770-645-5578. themusicclass.com/Atlanta

North Atlanta Pregnancy, Massage & Wellness Offers a variety of services for expecting and new mothers from massage, doula services, instructional classes and monthly infant massage classes. 404-465-3391. natlantapregnancy.com

Northeast Georgia Medical Center

From newborns to older children, PrepareFirst helps parents achieve their safety goals thoughtfully, attractively and with minimal expense. 678-888-0600.

PrepareFirst.com

Princeton Lakes Pediatrics Walk-ins accepted. Offering quality care for newborns, kids, teens. 2953 N. Cobb Parkway Suite 16/17, Kennesaw 30152. 678-483-6880. princetonlakespeds.com

The Schiff Preschool of Temple Emanu-El Nurturing Toddlers-Young 5’s. Flexible before & after care. Scholarships available.

Playgroups for infants & toddlers. 770-3529303. templeemanuelatlanta.org

Stepping Stone Montessori

Rated Georgia’s #1 Hospital for overall care, Heart, Surgery and Women’s Care.

770-219-9000. nghs.com

Stepping Stone Montessori School supports natural and optimal development, honors each child, and builds a foundation for life.

Sugar Hill 770-614-4310/ Cumming 770-205-0317. steppingstonemontessori.com

McGinnis Woods

Northside Hospital

Small, nurturing learning environment where students matter most. Ages 6 weeks-8th grade. NAEYC, GAC and SACS Accredited. 5380 Faircroft Drive, Alpharetta.

770-664-7764. mcginniswoods.org

WellStar Health System

A trusted and comprehensive resource for all of your maternity needs. 404-845-5555. northside.com

Please call 770-956-STAR (7827) for maternity tour information, class registration or physician referral. wellstar.org

Nurse and Nurture

Zoo Atlanta Stroller and Adventure Cubs

MJCCA Preschools The MJCCA offers two top-quality, NAEYC-accredited Jewish preschools, The Weinstein School (Dunwoody) and The Sunshine School (East Cobb). 678-8123833. atlantajcc.org/preschool

Montessori School of Cumming The toddler program provides quality education for children from ages 15 months to 3 years. Children are given one-on-one instruction from their teacher which creates an individualized program that engages their interests and skill levels. Offering full or half day, 10 month or year round option available. 4601 Post Road, Cumming. 770-205-6773.

MontessoriSchoolofCumming.com

Montessori School at Emory The toddler program provides quality education for children from ages 15 months to 3 years. Children are given one-on-one instruction from their teacher which creates an individualized program that engages their interests and skill levels. Offering full or half day, 10 month or year round option available. 3021 N Decatur Rd., Decatur. 404-634-5777.

MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com

atlantaparent.com

The premier newborn night nurse provider in the South. 404-835-7580. nurseandnurture.com

Monthly animal programs designed for newborns to 5-year-olds. 404-624-WILD zooatlanta.org

Path2Collge 529 Plan It’s not too early to start saving for college. The Path2College529 Plan is Georgia’s college savings plan that provides a tax-advantaged way to invest for a loved one’s college education. If you have a newborn, enter for a chance to win a jump start for your child’s future education expenses. Enter now and learn more at www.path2college529.com/atlparent

Pisgah Preschool A premier preschool in Johns Creek offering full and half day options with small classes where children explore, interact, develop and discover. Ages 6 weeks and up.

678-336-3443. experiencepisgah.org

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✽ Whimsical Pals

Flame the Dragon and Disco Elephant from Mamas & Papas are plush toys that will keep baby amused with textures, rattles and crinkles, a chime and a teething ring. Available at us.mamasandpapas.com. $18.99 and $17.99

It’s Child’s Play Our top picks for baby’s first toys – plus a tote to organize them.

✽ On-the-Go Toy Tote

✽

The aptly named Toy Nanny from 2 Red Hens really helps busy moms out when it comes to pickup-and-go toys. Spread out, it’s a 36-inch diameter play surface; when you’re ready to go, it scoops up the toys into an easy-tocarry bag. Available at 2redhens.com. $50

✽ A Soft Lullaby

Madame Alexander Doll Company has another winner with Sweet Baby Nursery: Lullaby Bunny Baby, a plush, huggable doll in a pink and white bunny romper.

The doll plays a soft lullaby when you press her hand. Available at madamealexander.com. $32.95

✽ Fun That Stacks Up

Balance them, tilt or spin them – Tobbles Neo six stackable spheres are a tactile and colorful play experience for infants to toddlers. Available at fatbraintoys.com. $26.95

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Atlanta Baby

✽ Pull His Tail, Too!

Pippin the Push Along Pup from Lamaze will become your baby’s best friend – its multiple fabrics, crinkle ears, rattle and squeaker encourage discovery and sensory development.

Available at tomy.com. $24.99 atlantaparent.com

Register Today!

At Schiff Preschool our loving, experienced and highly-trained teachers help children reach their full potential. ❋ Nurturing Toddlers-Young 5’s ❋ Stay N’ Play Playgroups ❋ Flexible Before & After Care ❋ Enrichment Classes Daily ❋ Music, Movement, Yoga ❋ Handwriting Without Tears ❋ Scholarships Available ❋ Licensed and Accredited

1580 Spalding Drive, Atlanta 770.352.9303 spurdin@temple-emanuel.net www.templeemanuelatlanta.org

WHAT ARE YOU DOING THE NEXT 10 SATURDAYS? Become a Dental Assistant in your spare time!

Our Dental Assistant Course is the right choice for you:

• Led by a team of working dental professionals in a professional environment with modern digital radiology.

• 10 Consecutive Saturdays Instruction times make it easy to learn on “off time”

• are looking for a new career direction...

• Licensed by GA, TN and AL Higher Education Commission.

• aren’t satisfied in your present entry level job...

• National accreditation by NACS

• need flexible working hours while you finish school...

• Tuition loans Available The Dental Staff School is now offering cross training courses that include Front Office Administration and Orthodontic assisting in order to better train tomorrow’s leading dental assistants. Please visit our website for more information.

(678) 819-3919

3020 Roswell Rd. Ste 100 Marietta GA 30062

dentalstaffschool.com

imagine Your Child?

What do you want for

IMAGINE A SCHOOL WHERE YOUR CHILD LEARNS…

• By Individual Instruction An • A Love of Learning Authentic • To Think Outside the Box AMI Accredited Montessori • Independence School • Respect for Others • A Solid Foundation • Foreign Language, Music, Cooking, Gardening and More HALF OR FULL DAY, YEAR ROUND PROGRAMS

Montessori School at Emory 3021 N. Decatur Road Decatur, GA 30033 MontessoriSchoolatEmory.com 404-634-5777

Montessori School of Cumming 4601 Post Road Cumming, GA 30040 MontessoriSchoolofCumming.com 770-205-6773

Now enrolling children ages 15 months – 12 years