Atlanta Baby 2022

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BABY FROM ATLANTA PARENT MAGAZINE

Delivery Decisions Advice for New Dads MomApproved OBs

Baby on a Budget

atlanta 2022

BABY FROM ATLANTA PARENT MAGAZINE

Guide for New and Expectant Parents

4 / Getting Ready to Welcome Baby What can parents can expect when they’re expecting? Everything from A to Z.

22 / Destined to Be a Dad Author and expert dad Armin Brott offers real-life advice for expectant fathers.

23 / Baby Products We Love Fun and functional products to make life with baby a little sweeter.

24 / Keeping Baby Safe The dos and don’ts of infant safety in the car, at home and around water.

8 / Baby On a Budget A new baby doesn’t have to break the bank! These tips can help you save a bundle.

12 / Pregnant and Protected Precautions every expectant mom should take to keep herself – and baby – safe.

Babies and Toddlers: Get Out and About!

28 / Fun Classes and Activities 29 / Best Outdoor Places to Play

Mom-Approved Doctors: We asked Atlanta Parent readers to tell us about the OB/GYNs and pediatricians they trust.

Obstetricians and Midwives: Page 14 / Pediatricians: Page 30

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BABY FROM ATLANTA PARENT MAGAZINE

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Liz White l ASSOCIATE

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WRITER Emily Webb

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ART DIRECTOR Sheri Taylor-Emery l COPY

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Robin Mintz SALES Carolyn Haushalter Christy Craig Genie Lockeretz

How to Reach Us 770-454-7599 2346 Perimeter Park Drive Atlanta, GA 30341 editor@atlantaparent.com advertising@atlantaparent.com 2022 Atlanta Baby 3

Getting Ready to Welcome Baby What to expect when you’re expecting?

Prepare for a whole lot of surprises.

Here’s our take, from Aah to Zzzs.

a b c d e f g 4 Atlanta Baby 2022

Aah – that’s a sigh of relief and an exclamation of joy when baby arrives. Moms-to-be are anxious about the health of their baby, and most of the 3.6 million born annually in the United States are healthy, 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 $70 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 97,950 more boys were born than girls.

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h i j k l m n o p q

According to the Chinese horoscope, babies born in 2022, the Year of the Tiger, are daring and unpredictable, but also generous and playful.

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 nearly 50% since 1980, and triplets, quads and higher order multiples have increased at an even higher rate.

Make the nursery as comfortable for you as it is for baby.

Make sure to have the essentials ready – a crib, changing table, baby monitor – but since you’ll also be spending a lot of time in the space, decorate it and add details to keep it pretty for you, too.

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 next page

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2022 Atlanta Baby 5

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 abdominal X-rays to protect your baby from possible 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 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 6 Atlanta Baby 2022

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N NEWBORN

9

MONTHS

Eats well Turns to your voice Sucks, swallows + breathes well

Picks up cereal O's Understands "no"

2 MONTHS

12 MONTHS

4

15

Brings hands to mouth Babbles Responds to affection

Mimics your actions Speaks 2-3 words

6

18

Sits up without support Plays with others

Points to 1 body part Eats with a spoon

Smiles Responds to sounds Holds head up

MONTHS

MONTHS

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Drinks from a cup Waves "bye-bye"

MONTHS

MONTHS

24

MONTHS

Kicks a ball Speaks in short sentences

*Services include physical, occupational, speech therapy; special instruction and service coordination to children ages birth to three years.

Early Intervention Early Intervention services help young children with disabilities achieve their goal in cognitive, social/emotional, communicative, adaptive and physical development. By providing screening, evaluation, and treatment for children with disabilities or who are at risk of developmental delay, plus education and support for their parents, family members, and caregivers we ensure that children with disabilities have increased independence and will be prepared to meet with success when they enter school.

Call 770-339-5048 for a referral and free developmental evaluation

Serving Gwinnett, Newton, or Rockdale Counties 2022 Atlanta Baby 7

BABY ON A BUDGET: How to Save a Bundle “Flex” financial muscles

by Janeen Lewis

Congratulations!

Having a baby is such an exciting time, and it can also be a bit stressful.

There is a lot to learn and prepare for, but finances shouldn’t get in the way. Here is some thrifty advice to get you ready for baby without breaking the bank!

8 Atlanta Baby 2022

Before Baby Budget early The secret to saving and finding the best deals on quality items is planning, researching and comparing prices. Estimate costs you might incur and write a spending plan. While everything won’t unfold as expected, some things may work out better. If the stork sneaks up on you, start planning as soon as possible.

Review health insurance and savings plans Choose a plan in which the premium to deductible ratio is the best price and value for pregnancy and childbirth care. Most health insurance policies cover the cost of breast pumps. Make sure yours does. If you have disability insurance, it may pay for maternity leave. Most importantly, start saving. Savings give a sense of peace and keep the focus on the baby in your arms instead of on financial burdens.

Check to see if your employer offers a flexible spending account or health savings account. These pre-tax dollars can be used to buy prenatal vitamins, breast pumps, breast milk storage bags, thermometers and more. While you can purchase over-the-counter baby pain relievers, teething gel and fever reducers with an FSA or HSA, check with your insurance company. Some require prescriptions for over-the-counter medications.

Childcare costs Think about which option of childcare makes the most sense for your family – staying at home with baby, a daycare facility, nanny, nanny share – and then research the costs associated. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) considers childcare affordable when it accounts for no more than 7% of a family’s household income. Try to keep your childcare costs within that range, so your bank account won’t feel the pressure of baby’s arrival. atlantaparent.com

During the Pregnancy Create a chic nursery without the designer price tag You don’t have to be a celebrity to design a beautiful nursery. Start with a safety-approved crib and add another desirable piece. This is what Emily Zolan, an Acworth mom to Julia, 14 months, did. “I researched and found a particular crib that I knew was safe,” Zolan says. “I found it on Facebook Marketplace for $200 when it is usually $1,000. Then I got a glider from Costco.”

Zolan recommends buying a nice rocker. “You are going to be sitting in the nursery a lot, so you want to love it.”

Register and be rewarded Create a baby registry at Amazon, Walmart, Target or Buy Buy Baby and receive free baby goodies and other perks like coupons and discounts on the items left unpurchased on your registry.

The free gifts usually include samples of products to try when the baby arrives. You can decide what works best before you spend money on baby items you won’t use. “Be choosy with your registry,” Zolan suggests. “People naturally like to give sweet baby clothes and fun gifts. Pare down your registry to the necessities, and you may still get the fun, cute things you want.”

Spend modestly on maternity clothes You’ll only be wearing them a few months. Budget more for maternity clothes for work than for working out.

Buy staple pieces that can function for different events and activities.

You can also find maternity clothes at some children’s consignment stores.

For lounging around the house, baggy sweats and T-shirts are comfortable. atlantaparent.com

Don’t let diapering a bottom affect your bottom line If friends want to give you a shower, consider having a diaper shower or make a diaper raffle part of a shower. Guests who bring a package of diapers in addition to their gift are included in a drawing for a prize. Amazon has a group gifting feature that allows expectant moms to set up a diaper fund.

Friends and family give to the fund and the money is loaded on to the expectant parents’ gift card balance.

Sikedra Lamar, a Vinings mom to 9-month-old Ailani, uses this strategy.

“I like the diaper fund because I can buy diapers as I need them,” Lamar says.

Brooke Norris, a Cartersville mom to 20-month-old Wyatt and 3-month-old Sadie, suggests having shower guests put a sticky note on diaper gifts labeling where the diapers were purchased in case you need to return them for a different size. “Target may have a 96-pack of Huggies and Ingles sells a 92-pack, so you can’t return diapers to just any store.”

Disposable diapers like organic, plant-based or chlorine-free ones can be pricey. Try a diaper subscription to cut down on costs if you want these specialty diapers.

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BABY ON A BUDGET After the Arrival It’s okay to be frugal when it comes to formula Breast milk is free and has tremendous nutritional benefits, but it doesn’t work out for every mom. Save on formula without skimping on what your baby needs. If you buy a name brand, go to the company website and sign up for coupons and online deals. Ask your doctor for free samples and ask other moms for samples they don’t want.

Keep in mind that all baby formula is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration to meet certain nutritional requirements.

Norris discovered this with her second child. “As first-time parents, we were nervous, so we paid more for the name brand,” Norris says. “I talked to my pediatrician, and we used store brand with our second child, and she’s been fine.” Norris says she did a side-by-side comparison of the name brand formula with a store brand. “They both had the same ingredients.”

Check out consignment sales and stores

Connect with New and Expectant Moms Learn about our print and digital packages For more information contact Laura at lpowell@atlantaparent.com 10 Atlanta Baby 2022

The beautiful thing about consignment is that you can get designer and name brand clothes, gear, furniture and toys at a fraction of the original cost. Baby items are outgrown so quickly that they are usually in good shape even if they are used. And once your baby is finished with an item, you can consign it. There are large seasonal consignment sales around Atlanta, typically in summer and winter; check online for dates and locations.

Consignment stores usually let patrons choose to receive cash or store credit for the items they sell and sweeten the pot by giving a higher amount for in-store credit. Once Upon a Child and Kid to Kid have multiple locations in the metro area; in Atlanta, Sweet Repeats has been selling upscale baby and maternity clothes for more than 35 years.

Find high-end baby clothing on the cheap Wait until the end of the season and buy for the next year to get upscale or designer clothing at rock bottom prices.

If your child outgrows the size you buy before the next year, you can always consign the items or regift to another expectant parent. Check out Facebook Marketplace to buy boutique baby clothes for less.

Swap babysitting The cost of paying even a neighborhood teen has increased dramatically. Trade babysitting with another couple and you can enjoy a night on the town without the expense of a babysitter. This also helps your baby feel comfortable with other adults, which can be a game-changer if you don’t have family close by or in the event of an emergency. atlantaparent.com

Invest in an item that’s worth the splurge You’re more likely to stick to your budget if you don’t feel deprived. With a smart financial plan in place, pick out an extravagant or convenient, time-saving item like a carseat-stroller combo, a bottle warmer, monogrammed diaper bag or a kids’ sound machine.

“The Baby Brezza is amazing,” Lamar says. This product works like a Keurig but with formula.

Norris loves the Owlet, a sock baby monitor. With it, parents can track their baby’s sleep patterns on their smart phone. Norris says it gives her peace of mind. “When Sadie had RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), I knew she was breathing fine.”

Zolan recommends Magnetic Me, baby clothing that comes with magnetic fasteners instead of snaps. “It makes dressing a baby faster,” she says. “When they are little, they don’t like to get cold.”

Babies don’t have to break the bank.

With a specific savings plan, you can save a bundle without skimping on the things you love.

More Ways to Save If you’re looking for additional ways to save, remember that little things add up and adopting a few of these ideas can bring BIG savings over time. l Don’t remove tags. If you don’t use something or it doesn’t fit, you may be able to take it back or consign it for a higher price. l Buy gear that grows with your baby.

l Make your own baby food.

l Invest in a battery charger and rechargeable batteries.

l Buy diapers, formula and wipes in bulk at a wholesale warehouse club or opt for generic/store brands.

l Don’t buy shoes until your baby walks. l Buy diaper pails that use any trash bag or throw diapers away in a trash can with a lid.

Specialty diaper pail bags are more expensive. l Buy gender neutral if you plan to have more than one child.

Free Places to Play l Look for free admission (usually for ages 2 and younger) at museums, nature centers and play places. l Many baby and toddler classes offer free trial sessions.

l Don’t buy a lot of bottles until after baby arrives. You don’t know what the baby will prefer. l Breastfeed or pump, if you are able. l Host a swap party.

l Playgrounds and parks are always free.

Indoor mall play areas are great spots to play. l Check your library or bookstore for free story times and activities. l Join a local mom/dad group on social media; many meet up for in-person playdates and activities.

dream a little dream...

From the moment you walk in our doors, you realize that The Women’s Center at Southern Regional was built with you and your baby’s comfort in mind. We know that bringing a baby into the world is one of life’s greatest joys and we go out of our way to provide a caring, safe, and comforting environment to welcome your little one.

View our virtual tour at https://fusion.realtourvision.com/381121

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Women’ s Center

11 Upper Riverdale Road, SW Riverdale, GA 30274 770-991-8000

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Member of Prime Healthcare

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2022 Atlanta Baby 11

Pregnant & Protected

by Emily Webb

Pregnant women are one of the most vulnerable populations affected by COVID-19. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the vaccine is safe for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant or may become pregnant in the future. Compared to non-pregnant people, pregnant and recently pregnant women are more likely to get severely ill with COVID-19.

“If you are pregnant, it is more important than ever to make sure you are vaccinated to protect yourself, as well as your baby,” says Denise J. Jamieson, the James Robert McCord Professor & Chair of Emory University School of Medicine’s Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics. “Although COVID infection can be mild, it can also be very severe, even life-threatening. We now know that pregnant women are more likely than non-pregnant women to have severe disease. Pregnant women are more likely to be hospitalized or admitted to an intensive care unit, and they are more likely to die. In addition, COVID increases the risk that you will have pregnancy complications, such as preterm birth or preeclampsia. We also now know that the protective antibodies that are made in response to the COVID vaccine cross the placenta. Therefore, getting vaccinated while pregnant may provide some protection to your newborn infant.” l Safety

First

There are many fears around getting the vaccine, but it is the safest and most effective way to protect yourself from infection.

“There are serious risks of not getting vaccinated. Right now, COVID infection rates are very high, and the vast majority of infections are among unvaccinated persons,” Jamieson says. There are more than 1 million confirmed cases in Georgia, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. “Although you may be scared of the vaccine, the risks of not getting vaccinated are real and scary, not only for you but also for your baby.”

12 Atlanta Baby 2022

Although these are strange times, try to remain positive as you look forward to welcoming a new member into your family.

If you have not yet been vaccinated, schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

The sooner you can receive the vaccine, the better off you and your baby will be.

“The best time to get vaccinated is prior to pregnancy so that once pregnant you are fully protected throughout,” Jamieson says.

“However, if you are not vaccinated prior to pregnancy, you can get vaccinated at any time during the pregnancy. With the current high circulating infection rates, the sooner the better. I would not recommend waiting.” l Ask

Others to Get Vaccinated Before the baby is born, remind your close friends and family to get vaccinated.

“In order to protect babies, who are vulnerable to infection yet not old enough to get vaccinated, it is very important that people who are around a baby be vaccinated,” Jamieson says. “You should tell your friends and family that in order to help protect your baby, they should get vaccinated now.” l Protect

Yourself and Others

Besides vaccination, protect from an infection by wearing a mask that covers your nose and mouth, staying six feet apart from people who don’t live with you, avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces, washing your hands often and using hand sanitizer. “Since the rates of COVID infection are so high in most communities

right now, it is important that pregnant persons do everything they can to protect themselves,” Jamieson says.

As the virus evolves, as well as science’s understanding of COVID-19, recommendations can change. “We now know that the protection from COVID vaccines can decline over time and that this may be particularly true for the omicron variant, which is widely circulating now.

This is why a booster shot is now routinely recommended for all adults 18 and older and will likely be recommended for 12-17year-olds,” Jamieson says. “For pregnant persons, it is particularly important to receive a booster shot since pregnancy increases the risk of severe disease. If you have not received a booster prior to pregnancy, you can get a booster any time during pregnancy.” Talk to your doctor about any vaccination concerns you may have. l Look

Forward to the Future

Although these are strange times, try to remain positive as you look forward to welcoming a new member into your family.

“These are difficult and uncertain times.

Although this has lasted much longer than I had anticipated, I still am hopeful that we will get through this, and the pandemic will end,” Jamieson says. “I would advise pregnant women to do everything they can to stay safe and not give up their guard in this ‘last inning.’” atlantaparent.com

In five years, you’ll be seeing more Liams and Olivias

in first-grade classrooms. The top baby names of 2020 in the United States, according to the Social Security Administration: n Boys: Liam Noah Oliver Elijah William James Benjamin Lucas Henry Alexander

n Girls: Olivia Emma Ava Charlotte Sophia Amelia Isabella Mia Evelyn Harper

The names of babies born in Georgia

closely track the nationwide list, but with a few surprises.

The top 10 names for babies born in Georgia:

What’s in a Name?

For Baby, A Lot Naming a baby is an exciting time in a parent’s journey – you’ll learn how many names you love and how many remind you of people you don’t like! While some names never go out of style, there’s always new trends to spot with the potential popularity.

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n Boys: Liam Noah William Elijah James John Asher Oliver Aiden Mason

Top genderneutral names, according to Nameberry: Avery Riley Ryan Parker Cameron Angel Jordan Sawyer Rowan River

n Girls: Ava Olivia Amelia Emma Charlotte Sophia Isabella Harper Evelyn Elizabeth

Names that Fit a Boy or Girl

When the baby announcement introduces Charlie, don’t be quick to assume the couple had a boy, as you might have a few years ago. More parents are choosing gender-neutral baby names, and Charlie is among the trending monikers, according to a Quartz analysis of the SSA’s public data in 2018. Other names that have become less gendered since 1920 include Alexis, Blake, Casey, Dylan and Spencer.

2022 Atlanta Baby 13

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OB/GYNS Adams, Anthony, MD Apogee Women’s Health, College Park Anand, Indu Stacey, MD North Atlanta Women’s Specialists, Atlanta, Marietta and Duluth Barger, Robert Brett, MD Longstreet Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gainesville Birt, Julianne Adams, MD Radiant Women’s Health, Conyers Blackburn, Nicole M., MD Georgia Obstetrics and Gynecology, Atlanta and Alpharetta Bonk, Catherine M., MD Atlanta Gynecology and Obstetrics, Decatur and Lilburn Brown, Keila A., MD Family Health Centers of Georgia, Atlanta Cierney, Jill T., MD Northside/Northpoint OB-GYN, Atlanta and Alpharetta Crigler, Britton, MD Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, Woodstock and Canton Daboiko, Halima, MD Kaiser Permanente Crescent Medical Center, Tucker

“Dr. Julianne Birt of Radiant Women’s Health is amazing. She is personable and makes her patient feel comfortable with all topics.”

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Davis-Williams, Camille, MD Greater Atlanta Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta Davis, Ryan, MD Tanner Healthcare for Women, Villa Rica Eaton, Lakisha, MD Greater Atlanta Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta Esteves, Daniel, MD Daniel Esteves, MD, Lawrewnceville

James, Cherise, MD Intown Midwifery, Atlanta Knoer, James, MD Peachtree Women’s Specialists, Atlanta Litrel, Michael, MD Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, Woodstock and Canton Ma.Lourdes, Mina, MD OB/GYN Specialists, Macon

Falkner, Sabrina, MD Women’s Group of Gwinnett, Lawrenceville

Mandeville, L. Dawn, MD Atlanta Gynecology and Obstetrics, Decatur and Lilburn

Fernandez, Sabrina, MD Atlanta Gynecology and Obstetrics, Decatur and Lilburn

Menon, Nitasha, MD North Atlanta Women’s Specialists, Atlanta, Marietta and Duluth

Gandhi, Peahen, MD Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, Woodstock and Canton

Miller, Taniqua A., MD Emory Clinic and Emory University, Atlanta

Goodson-Gerami, Leah, DO Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, Woodstock and Canton Grogan, Stephanie S., MD Peachtree Women’s Clinic, Alpharetta and Atlanta Guster, Tia Marie, MD Piedmont Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology, Newnan Guthrie, Deanna E., MD Peachtree City Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peachtree City and Newnan Haley, James, MD Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, Woodstock and Canton Haugabrook, Clarissa, MD Eagle’s Landing OB/GYN, Stockbridge Ibezue, Ijeoma, MD Nile Women’s Healthcare, Roswell and Suwanee

Parker, Melissa C., MD Roswell OB/GYN, Alpharetta and Canton Price, Lisa, MD Dunwoody OBGYN, Dunwoody Robbins, Richard B., MD Roswell OB/GYN, Alpharetta and Atlanta Rogers, Tosha, MD Atlanta Premier OB/GYN, Atlanta

“Dr. Richard Robbins of Roswell OB/GYN goes above and beyond to make all patients smile no matter the challenge and see them through the journey.”

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING Saini, Niharika, DO Greystone OB/GYN, Conyers Sea, Tamika L., MD Advanced Women’s Care Center, Stockbridge Sermons, Alvin L., MD Dunwoody OBGYN, Dunwoody

“Brittany Ellison, CNM of Nile Women’s Health Care listens and cares for her patients. Midwifery is her calling and it shows in her care.”

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Sims, Stacy L., MD Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, Marietta Smith, Yvette M., MD Atlanta Women’s Specialists, Atlanta and Alpharetta Street, Elizabeth, MD Unified Premier Woman’s Care, Marietta Szabo, Caitlin, MD Piedmont Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta Tackett, Bobby, MD OB-GYN Associates, Marietta Walters, Jacqueline, MD Comprehensive Women’s OBGYN, Dunwoody and Duluth Williams, Jessica, MD Wellstar South Cobb OB/GYN, Austell Young, Katherine, MD New Beginnings Comprehensive Women’s Healthcare, Conyers and Lithonia

Ladisic, Annie, CMN Nile Women’s Health Care, Roswell Maxwell, Dayna, CNM Wellstar Cobb OBGYN, Austell and Hiram Ragan, Carson, CMN OB2me Concierge Obstetric Care, Marietta Strickhouser, Margaret, CMN Intown Midwifery, Atlanta Taylor, Christine, CMN Birth by Grace Midwifery Services, Tyrone

MIDWIVES Blomberg, Kirsten, CMN Intown Midwifery, Atlanta Earman, Lynn, CNM Nile Women’s Health Care, Roswell and Suwanee Ellison, Brittany, CNM Nile Women’s Health Care, Roswell and Suwanee

Zimmerman, Amanda, CNM Providence Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta, Roswell, and Johns Creek

FERTILITY SPECIALISTS Asemota, Obehi, MD Hope Fertility, Alpharetta

Hannula, Amy, CNM Roswell OB/GYN, Alpharetta and Atlanta

Cain, Kristen, MD Kindbody, Buckhead

Hudson, Tandra, CNM Providence Women’s Healthcare, Atlanta, Alpharetta and Johns Creek

McCarthy-Keith, Desiree, MD Shady Grove Fertility, Atlanta and Alpharetta

LaCroix, Charleane, CNM Wellstar South Cobb OB-GYN, Austell

Toner, James, MD Emory Reproductive Center, Atlanta

Catherine M. Bonk, MD & L. Dawn Mandeville, MD

Atlanta Gynecology & Obstetrics (AGO) congratulates Dr. Catherine Bonk and Dr. L. Dawn Mandeville on being nominated as Mom-Approved Doctors. Dr. Bonk and Dr. Mandeville are dedicated to empowering women to make the best decisions when it comes to childbirth and health.

AGO is a diverse group of female physicians, midwives, and nurse practitioners who prioritize collaboration, choice, and safety. You’ll always make the right choice when you know and understand the options available – backed by a team of women who share your perspective and your experience. AGO physicians have all been moms themselves, so they go beyond clinical expertise and work alongside you through every visit, every question, leading up to the special joy of bringing a new life into the world.

AGO believes that one of its most important jobs is educating women about their health before, during, and after pregnancy. Education is part of their model of care, scheduling visits around key milestones and decision points. Even putting information at the tips of your fingers through advanced technology applications to help you understand the changes your body is going through, week by week.

The goal of the AGO team is to guide you to the best birth possible. They are honored to have been nominated as a practice of “Mom-Approved Doctors” for Atlanta Parent and would be honored to help you along your pregnancy journey at either of their Decatur or Gwinnett locations. atlantagynob.com Decatur Office 315 Winn Way Decatur 30030 404-299-9724

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Gwinnett Office 449 Pleasant Hill Rd., #200 Lilburn 30047 770-923-5033

2022 Atlanta Baby 15

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For Dr. Yvette Smith, one of the best parts of specializing in women’s health is teaching. At Atlanta Women’s Specialists, she has the chance to educate women in all stages of life, from the early weeks of pregnancy to entering menopause.

Her relationships with her patients are true partnerships, providing information and helping patients make the healthcare choices that are right for them.

Dr. Smith’s patients benefit from her openness and willingness to raise issues that may be difficult to discuss. They also benefit from her knowledge, experience and ability to interpret constantly evolving medical and scientific knowledge.

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www.awsphysicians.com

Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, PC

Since 1993, patients of Cherokee Women’s Health have submitted thousands of rave reviews for the expert care they’ve received, earning the practice multiple awards. They have been voted “Best OB/GYNs” in Cherokee County for 5 consecutive years, “Best Surgeons” for the past three years, and multiple physicians have been voted “Top Doctor” by their peers since 2016. But their stellar reputation is not just local, it’s nationwide. Patients have traveled to Cherokee Women’s Health from 44 different states for their OB/GYN care.

Dr. Michael Litrel, Dr. Peahen Gandhi, and Dr. James Haley are double board-certified in OB/GYN and Urogynecology (Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery). This expertise has drawn patients from as far as Alaska, Montana, and Maine seeking solutions for complex pelvic and gynecological issues.

Dr. Britton Crigler, Dr. Leah Goodson-Gerami, Dr. Mariya Zhukova, and Dr. Lisa McLeod complete this powerhouse team of seven OB/GYNs, four midwives and a physician assistant. So, whether patients live just down the road or across the country, they can be certain that they’ll receive the utmost quality of care from a diverse group of physicians and staff.

CANTON 227 Riverstone Drive Canton 30114

WOODSTOCK 100 Stoneforest Drive, Ste. 200 Woodstock 30189

cherokeewomenshealth.com 770-720-7733

Ryan Davis, MD

A passionate OB/GYN specialist, Dr. Davis offers a specialized approach to women’s care. He works with women at all stages of their lives, addressing their needs with understanding and compassion, helping them live at their best.

Dr. Davis is trained in robotic surgery and earned his medical degree from the Ross University School of Medicine in Miramar, Florida.

At Tanner Healthcare for Women, Dr. Davis is part of a patient care team that delivers the best in women’s and maternity care across west Georgia and east Alabama.

Learn more at TannerHealthcareForWomen.org.

690 Dallas Highway Suite 301 Villa Rica 30180 770-812-3850

TannerHealthcareForWomen.org

16 Atlanta Baby 2022

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING

Sabrina O. Falkner, MD

Dr. Sabrina Falkner is dedicated to taking care of women in all stages of life, whether she is counseling a teenager who is going off to college, delivering a couple’s first baby or helping to alleviate some of the challenges of menopause.

She makes it a priority to develop personal relationships with each of her patients and ensures that they are active participants in the process of their health care.

Dr. Falkner completed her undergraduate and medical training at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and practiced at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills for three years before relocating to Georgia. She has been in practice with the Women’s Group of Gwinnett for 15 years and is proud to be the senior partner there. Dr. Falkner is passionate about her work and focuses on communication and education with all her patients.

At the Women’s Group of Gwinnett, Dr. Falkner and her team of caring, professional doctors provide a wide range of obstetric and gynecological services and have privileges at Gwinnett Medical Center. All patients are treated with compassion and personalized care; call today for an appointment at the Lawrenceville office.

770-979-4700 www.womensgroupofgwinnett.com 500 Medical Center Blvd.Suite 250 Lawrenceville 30046

Tosha Rogers, MD

Philadelphia native Dr. Tosha Rogers is the owner of Atlanta Premier OB/GYN, a private practice located in the heart of Glenwood Park. She received her training as a highly regarded and skilled resident in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Drexel University College of Medicine at Hahnemann University Hospital.

Dr. Rogers is dedicated to providing the highest level of stateof-the-art care for women of all ages, specializing in high-risk pregnancies and minimally invasive GYN surgery. She takes special interest in educating and mentoring young adults and women on HIV prevention and sexual health and hygeine. Dr. Rogers is known for providing her patients with compassionate care in a receptive environment.

Atlanta Premier OB/GYN 764 Memorial Drive, Suite 101 Atlanta 30316 678-705-4900 drtosharogers.com

atlantaparent.com

2022 Atlanta Baby 17

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

Here are some things to consider when creating 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.

The birth plan is a communication tool for conversations with your medical team about your preferences. 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. Your birth plan goes in your medical chart, and you need one with “do’s and don’ts” for your baby that will be placed in the infant’s nursery chart. Putting together a birth plan ahead of time might help you feel more prepared for labor and delivery, but keep flexibility in mind; neither you nor your practitioner will be able to predict everything that will happen on delivery day.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, hospital policies have changed. Make sure you understand the policies for testing or symptom screening, if your support person can stay with you, mask practices, the possibility for virtual support and visitor policies.

– Melanie Wagner and Amanda Allen

n Who do you want to be present at the birth? Your spouse, partner, friends, relatives or doula? n Know who will deliver your baby and the backup doctor or midwife, just in case. n Know when you should go to the hospital (immediately if you are Group B strep positive or when your water breaks). n How will you labor? Walking, birthing bed, sitting in a chair, rocking on a big ball, a water birth? n Which pain relief would you like administered? An epidural or spinal block, acupressure, no pain medication? n Would you like to push instinctively or be coached on when to push and for how long? n 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? n 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? n Do you want to breastfeed only, formula feed only or a combination? n Do you want your baby boy circumcised at the hospital, at a later date or not at all?

18 Atlanta Baby 2022

atlantaparent.com

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

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

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

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

And, don’t forget the comfy socks.

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

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.

Makeup and toiletries: You’ll want to pack for you and your support person.

Supplies include a hairbrush, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant. Remember contacts and glasses, if you wear them. And you might feel better in lip gloss.

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

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

Music: Bring a portable Bluetooth speaker to connect to your playlists.

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

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

Must-Have Products A diaper bag will become a necessity after baby arrives.

Check out these options for keeping baby’s essentials organized.

n Mainframe Diaper Backpack from Skip Hop: This lightweight backpack keeps you organized with tons of pockets, including two zipper pockets and two bottle holders. There’s also a tech pocket, elasticized compartments and a cushioned changing pad. You can carry, wear as a backpack or strap to your stroller. Comes in two different colors; available at skiphop.com for $75.

atlantaparent.com

n Dream Convertible Diaper Bag from Itzy Ritzy: This multi-function bag converts from a diaper bag to a crossbody shoulder bag to a handy tote, no matter your needs. With 14 different pockets, store bottles, pacifiers, burp clothes, baby wipes, a laptop and more. Available in two colors at itzyritzy.com for $159.99.

n Elkin Sustainable Diaper Bag from Product of the North: Looking for a sustainable option?

This pack is made of 100% recycled plastic, is water resistant and easy to clean. It has two exterior side pockets, two interior pockets, a removable changing pad and an insulated pocket for bottles and snacks.

Comes in six colors at channingbaby.com or productofthenorth.com for $99.99.

2022 Atlanta Baby 19

Where Will You Have Your Baby?

Private (P) Mat. Beds

Birthing Rooms LDR/LDRP**

Births Per Month

C-Section Rate

Maternity Tours

Emory Decatur Hospital 2701 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur, GA 30033 404-501-1000. emoryhealthcare.org

52-P

18 LDR/LDRP

260

19% Total 16% Repeat

emoryhealthcare.org/ maternity

Emory Johns Creek Hospital 6325 Hospital Pkwy., Johns Creek, GA 30097 678-474-7000. emoryhealthcare.org

11-P

12 LDR/LDRP

95-115

18% Primary 16% Repeat

emoryhealthcare.org/ maternity

Emory University Hospital Midtown 550 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 404-686-4411. emoryhealthcare.org

51-P

18 LDR

485-500

33%

emoryhealthcare.org/ maternity

Grady Memorial Hospital 80 Jesse Hill Jr. Dr. SE, Atlanta, GA 30303 404-616-1000. gradyhealth.org

29-P

12 LDR/LDRP

223

14.5% Primary* 14.8% Repeat*

By appt.

404-616-1000

Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton 1400 River Place, Braselton, GA 30517 770-848-3312. nghs.com

20-P

10 LDR

approx. 100

13% Primary 28% Total

nghs.com/events/labordelivery-tour-ngmc-braselton

Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville 743 Spring St. NE, Gainesville, GA 30501 770-219-1495. nghs.com

30-P

18 LDR

approx. 277

13.9% Primary 29.9% Total

nghs.com/events/laborand-delivery-tour-ngmcgainesville

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

200-P

42 LDR

1,292

39%

northside.com/ maternitytours for more information

Northside Hospital Cherokee 405 Northside Cherokee Blvd., Canton, GA 30115 770-224-1000. northside.com

24-P

8 LDR

175

34%

northside.com/ maternitytours for more information

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

40-P

12 LDR

275

33.6%

northside.com/ maternitytours for more information

Northside Hospital Gwinnett 550 Medical Center Blvd., Lawrenceville, GA 30046 678-312-1000. northside.com

37-P

19 LDR

350

33%

678-312-5000

Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center 1199 Prince Ave., Athens, GA 30606 706-475-3328. piedmont.org

28-P

10 LDR

200

30%

Register online at piedmont.org

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

29-P

13 LDR

200-250

38%

Virtual tours.

404-605-2113

Piedmont Eastside Medical Center 1700 Medical Way, Snellville, GA 30078 770-736-2500. eastsidemedical.com

22-P

13 LDR

115

37%

By appt. online

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

32-P

12 LDR

210

23.2% NSTV births

Updated info on website for Piedmont Fayette Hospital Maternity Services

Hospital

The information on this chart has been provided by each hospital.

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atlantaparent.com

T

here are so many things to do before your baby arrives. One of your first decisions as a parent is where to deliver your infant.

This list of 28 metro-area hospitals includes birthing rooms and birth rates. Many hospitals are not holding in-person tours due to COVID-19 restrictions, but you can still take advantage of private appointments or virtual tours. Call or check websites for details.

Figure out your insurance details beforehand, and reach out with any questions you may have. Prepare early for less stress and a better experience for you and your baby.

Private (P) Mat. Beds

Birthing Rooms LDR/LDRP**

Births Per Month

C-Section Rate

Maternity Tours

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

18-P

12 LDR

159

19.3% NSTV births

Updated info on website for Piedmont Henry Hospital Maternity Services

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

7-P

4 LDR/LDRP

20

25%

706-301-5246 for info

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

18-P

6 LDR/LDRP

140

35%

Updated info and video tour online at piedmont.org/baby

Piedmont Newton Hospital 5126 Hospital Dr. NE, Covington, GA 30014 770-385-4355. piedmont.org

16-P

16 LDR/LDRP

50

21% Primary 14.8% Repeat

Virtual tours only, call 770-385-4182 for link

Piedmont Rockdale Hospital 1412 Milstead Ave., Conyers, GA 30012 770-918-3000. piedmont.org

19-P

16 LDR/LDRP

130

34% 16% Repeat

Virtual tours only, online at piedmont.org

Piedmont Walton Hospital 2151 W. Spring St., Monroe, GA 30655 770-267-1785. piedmont.org

7-P

7 LDR/LDRP

36

18%

770-267-1785 to schedule a private tour

Southern Regional Medical Center 11 Upper Riverdale Rd., Riverdale, GA 30274 770-991-8000. southernregional.org

40-P

14 LDR/LDRP

171

18% Primary 13% Repeat

770-991-8246; virtual tour at: fusion.realtourvision. com/381121

Wellstar Atlanta Medical Center 303 Parkway Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 404-265-4000. wellstar.org

30-P

13 LDR/LDRP

165

Not provided

770-956-7827 to register

Wellstar Cobb Hospital 3950 Austell Rd. SW, Austell, GA 30106 470-732-4000. wellstar.org

38-P

20 LDR/LDRP

230

Not provided

770-956-7827 to register

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

10-P

10 LDR/LDRP

55

Not provided

770-956-7827 to register

Wellstar Kennestone Hospital 677 Church St., Marietta, GA 30060 770-793-5000. wellstar.org

69-P

20 LDR/LDRP

465

Not provided

770-956-7827 to register

Wellstar North Fulton Hospital 3000 Hospital Blvd., Roswell, GA 30076 770-751-2500. wellstar.org

20-P

6 LDR/LDRP

105

Not provided

770-956-7827 to register

Wellstar Spalding Regional Hospital 601 South 8th St., Griffin, GA 30224 770-228-2721. wellstar.org

21-P

4 LDR/LDRP

85

Not provided

770-956-7827 to register

Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center 1514 Vernon Rd., LaGrange, GA 30240 706-882-1411. wellstar.org

20-P

10 LDR/LDRP

60

Not provided

770-956-7827 to register

Hospital

*2019 Rates

**Labor, Delivery, Recovery, Postpartum Rooms

atlantaparent.com

2022 Atlanta Baby 21

Destined to be a Dad: What Expectant Fathers Should Know

by Emily Webb

“The Expectant Father: The Ultimate Guide for Dads-to-Be” is now in its fifth edition. Written by “Mr. Dad,” Armin A. Brott, the book features reallife advice and the latest research. His other books include “The New Father: A Dad’s Guide to the First Year” and “The New Father: A Dad’s Guide to the Toddler Years, 12-36 Months.”

Atlanta Parent spoke to Brott about how firsttime dads can prepare for this new, exciting and terrifying time in their lives.

AP: Since the original publication of this book, in what ways has the parenting world for fathers gotten better or worse?

AB: When the first edition came out, I

imagined that by the time my kids had kids, there would be resources specifically for expectant fathers. Dads don’t get the same type of respect. Dads are looked at as afterthoughts and aren’t really given equal weight as parents. It’s not good for parents or babies to consider dads to be not as important as moms. By having that attitude, it puts the mom in a position of having to do everything, while dad is mom’s little helper, instead of someone who’s an equal. Our culture looks at the primary role of man as the provider/ protector, and that means the guy is the one who goes out and provides money. Mom doesn’t feel like she has someone who can help her at home, and it becomes a vicious cycle that doesn’t benefit anyone.

AP: What main piece of advice would you give a first-time father?

AB: Close your eyes, jump in, and start

making mistakes. You’ll become a competent and confident dad by making mistakes.

Your partner figured it out by figuring out the ways that didn’t work. You want to have an independent relationship with kids that’s not based on mom, and that is what your partner and your kids want, too. Take refuge in the fact that she never would have gotten involved with you if you were a danger to kids. Kids are resilient little creatures, and you’ll learn together what works. Read a lot of books, find resources, and educate yourself as much as you can. But mostly, it’s the hands-on, on-thejob training. Be there as often as possible.

22 Atlanta Baby 2022

AP: What advice do you have for fathers

AP: How can men help their partners

AB: I use a lot of technology in my life for pretty much

AB: Some of it is stereotypical, as part of that

regarding their child’s first two years?

everything, but I look down on phones and tablets for baby. Doctors are finding kids who spend time with tablets have less eye-hand coordination and muscle tone, especially in small muscles. Occasionally, parents can use technology as a babysitter for 5-10 minutes while taking a shower or making a phone call, but when it’s for hours and hours at a time, it’s a problem. They’re not learning to communicate, and they’re not learning from you.

AP: How can you and your partner navigate your different emotions together throughout the pregnancy?

AB: The pregnancy is very interesting emotionally.

Dads go through the same emotions mom does, but they’re generally a trimester behind. The expectant dad doesn’t want to tell his partner what he’s feeling or worring about, because he’s worried about putting more pressure on her, putting her off or making her think that he’s not into the whole baby thing. Start early on by talking through what you’re thinking or feeling. Talk for a few minutes every night, and just listen. Be nice to each other – there’s a lot going on physically and emotionally, and this is just as profound for dad as it is for mom.

AP: How can couples maintain their emotional bond after the baby is born?

AB: Continue to connect after the baby has shown up

– what are we thinking or talking about, listening to each other and having productive discussions. Make sure you have some time off, both as dads and moms. Metime is super important. Don’t be afraid to double count things. Taking your kid to the grocery store can count as time with the baby, even while you are completing errands. Make the baby a part of your everyday life.

during pregnancy?

provider/protector role, but nesting, building furniture and financial planning are concrete ways to stay involved during pregnancy. Guys have a stake in the pregnancy, too. Go with your partner to the doctor appointments, and ask questions. Many end up not coming to the doctor and feel separated. Building a crib, helping with menu planning, thinking about school districts, buying a new car and working through issues make it feel like you have a stake in it and give guys a way to feel involved.

From day one, they feel they can be fathers and are ready to go.

AP: How can expectant dads lessen their own feelings of stress or anxiety around the labor and delivery process?

AB: Read as much as you possibly can, and

prepare yourself as much as possible. Make friends with the nurses. There’s a point in there – usually when it’s time to start pushing – where the dad takes a secondary role to the nurses. You can still be a full participant, and ask how can you be most helpful. But knowing what to expect and knowing your own limitations, the better you’re going to be at that time.

AP: What’s the best advice about being a dad that you’ve received?

AB: For the first year or so, don’t try to force

the kids to be something they’re not. Take your direction from the kids. Let the kids be who they’re going to be, and don’t worry about making them into who you want them to be.

atlantaparent.com

The Best for Baby

Prepare for the arrival of your bundle of joy with these products.

l The ComfyHUG Hybrid Newborn Baby Carrier from Boppy is a comfortable and secure way to carry babies from 5-20 lbs. The tank topstyle arm straps provide a shirt-like feel for skin-to-skin contact, and the Snuggle Screen mesh panel allows for in-carrier nursing. Available in four colors at boppy.com for $60.

l Easily document your baby’s milestones with a photo-ready backdrop from Little Unicorn’s Photo Blanket & Milestone Set. Designs include tropical leaf, watercolor roses, planetary, summer poppy and dark coneflower. The milestone cards include 1-6 days, 1-4 weeks, 1-11 and 18 months and 1-2 years, for detailing your baby’s growth.

Available at littleunicorn.com for $25.

l Guarantee your kids have a seat at the table with the Cocoon High Chair from Oribel. The chair can transform from a recliner to a high chair for use from 6 months to 3 years. The chair has three recline positions and six height adjustments. When it’s time to feed baby, attach the food and cup holder to the chair. When your toddler is ready, attach the large tray for self-feeding. Store the item easily with its foldable design and magnetic stowaway for the tray. Available in four colors at loveoribel.com for $229.

l It’s easy to take baby everywhere with the Bravo 3-in-1 Trio Travel System from Chicco. The travel system has three different modes: a frame carrier, a travel system and a toddler stroller, for easy use from newborn to toddler. As a stroller, it features a reclining seat and a convenient child tray with cup holders and storage. A canopy provides privacy and protection from the elements. You can also easily fold for quick packing in your car when you’re on the go. Available in five colors at chiccousa.com for $399.99.

atlantaparent.com

l Treat baby and yourself to monthly goodies with the 123 Baby Box. This subscription service sends innovative items tailored to your baby’s age and development stage, along with a few fun products for mom. Each box contains 5-6 full-sized products. Ideal for ages 0-3. Monthly subscription plans are available at 123babybox.com for $39.99-$59.99.

2022 Atlanta Baby 23

How to Keep Your Baby Safe

by Emily Webb

Car Safety

Bringing baby home is exciting! For first-time parents, it can also be challenging – there are a lot of dos and don’ts – but infant safety shouldn’t scare you. There are so many resources available to help you make the best decisions possible for your baby and family.

Atlanta Parent spoke to local experts about areas of your child’s life you should pay special attention to.

Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death among children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“A child younger than 13 is involved in a car crash every 33 seconds, and car crashes are the leading cause of injury and death in children,” Walker says.

The Experts:

Wes Johnson, MD, at Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine

Sarah Lazarus, DO, a pediatric emergency department physician at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

24 Atlanta Baby 2022

Deneta H. Sells, MD, FAAP, at Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine

Michelle Walker, manager of injury and illness prevention at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Strong4Life

n “Have a properly installed car seat or booster seat, and make sure your child is buckled up correctly,” Walker says. “The AAP recommends that all infants and toddlers ride in rear-facing car seats in the backseat until they reach the highest weight or height indicated by their car seat manufacturer. A parent or caregiver should refer to the car seat’s manual or manufacturer’s website for those height and weight limits.” n Walker also recommends that parents read their car seat’s manual and watch Strong4Life’s videos for properly installing car seats. “It’s also a great idea to find a local car seat technician to teach parents how to properly install one,” she says. Car seat technicians can be found at: cert.safekids.org. atlantaparent.com

Household & Furniture Safety n Vehicle airbags are not safe for children, so you should keep your child in the backseat. n “When shopping for car seats, there are many options on the market. By law, they all must pass the same safety standards; however, beware of buying from online sources,” Walker says. “They are not always regulated and some sell ‘counterfeit’ car seats that are not safe. Authentic, federally compliant car seats will contain many safety labels, including a warning label.” n “Understanding why we have the milestones for turning forward-facing helps encourage families to keep their child rear-facing. I try to explain that it is not just height and weight that drive our ‘okay’ for turning forward-facing; it is a skeletal maturity – muscle and bone strengthening and development – that develops in your child’s upper spine at around 2 years old that we are waiting for,” Johnson says. “We recommend a booster until your child is 4 feet 9 inches, because every car is very different, and most cars have a shoulder strap that will not come across the shoulder.” n Role model good car behavior. Buckle up, and stay off your cell phone while driving. n Do not leave your child alone in a car or allow your child to play in your car.

“Children’s bodies heat up much more quickly than adults,” Sells says. “Any parent or caregiver, even a very loving and attentive one, can forget a child is in the back seat. Being especially busy or distracted or having a change from the usual routine increases the risk. Make a habit of always checking the back seat before walking away from the car. Some drivers leave their cellphone or bag on the back seat, so they check the rear when arriving at their destination. Store car keys securely and teach children the car is not a safe place to play.” atlantaparent.com

In 2019, 11,521 children visited the emergency department for injuries from furniture or tip-overs, according to Nationwide Children’s Hospital. “Toddlers will climb on everything. Life is one big adventure challenge to them,” Johnson says. n “Keep in mind that not every infant will wait until 4 months to roll over; they don’t all read the book!” Johnson says. “Watch your wee one on the changing table closely when stepping away to grab the outfit, new pack of diapers or wipes from the closet.” n “Injuries from falling televisions are on the rise and most of these are from smaller televisions perched on a dresser or nightstand; usually, ones that have been replaced by larger televisions and then moved to a bedroom or basement,” Sells says. “All televisions should be mounted to the wall or to a piece of furniture that is mounted to the wall.” n Buying certain products can help you keep your child safer. Invest in childproof cabinet locks. Consider stove-knob covers. Get stick-on corner cards to place on sharp edges on furniture. Buy childproof coverings for electrical outlets. Get cordless blinds or shades for windows. n “Your child will climb on your furniture, so you must stabilize the things they climb on,” Sells says. “Dressers, bookcases, mirrors and other pieces of furniture should be secured to the wall, preferably with dry-wall screws into a stud.” n Get an open bin for toys, as heavy lids can be dangerous. Be mindful of small toys or items your child could swallow. n Vacuum regularly to suck up loose change, paper clips or small items.

n Use gates around stairs, and keep young children strapped in highchairs and swings. n Cover electrical outlets to keep little fingers safe. n Keep grilling activities outside. Watch curious little hands around hot surfaces.

Blow out any candles, and ensure the stove and oven are off before bed. Make sure detectors are armed. n “Install stops on dresser drawers to prevent them from being pulled all the way out,” Walker says. “If more than one is pulled out at the same time, it can cause the weight to shift, making the dresser easy to fall over.” n “Most new furniture in the U.S. is rigorously tested to meet certain infant safety standards. This may not apply to items purchased on the internet, and this could be a serious safety risk when purchasing a crib or play item,” Johnson says. “Closely inspect your purchase for loose-fitting parts, and feel free to return it if there are any questions or concerns. It’s just not worth the risk.” n Families can be thrifty when buying items for the nursery, if they do their research.

“Buying used or getting items from friends and family is fine as long as there have been no recalls to the product,” Walker says. “It’s important to check the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website (cpsc.gov) for recalls and make sure all items are up to date and safe for use.”

Cont’d on next page

2022 Atlanta Baby 25

How to Keep Your Baby Safe Sleep Safety Each year in the U.S., more than 3,500 infants, without a prior known illness or injury, die suddenly and unexpectedly.

As of 2017, Georgia averaged three infant deaths per week due to sleep-related causes, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. “Bed sharing is not recommended for any baby,” Sells says. “You may bring your baby to bed for feeding and comforting and then place your baby back into her safe sleep place when you are ready to go to sleep.” n Follow the ABCs: Put your baby to sleep Alone; place your baby on their Back; and ensure your baby’s sleep space is Clear. n “Babies should sleep on their backs for all naps and at nighttime until their first birthday,” Sells says.

“We know that babies that sleep on their backs are much less likely to die of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome than babies who sleep on their sides or stomachs. Some babies will roll to their stomachs to sleep from their backs. If they are able to roll from back-to-front and front-to-back, you do not need to re-position them.” n “Cribs, bassinets, portable cribs and play yards that meet the safety standards of the CPSC are recommended, along with a tightfitting, firm mattress and fitted sheet designed for that particular product,” Sells says. “Use caution when a product claims to reduce the risk of SIDS. Wedges, positioners, special mattresses and specialized sleep surfaces have not been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS, according to the AAP. Do not rely on home heart or breathing monitors to reduce the risk of SIDS. If you have questions about using these monitors for other health conditions, talk with your pediatrician.”

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n Bumper pads can lead to suffocation, strangulation or entrapment. Don’t place cribs or bassinets near windows, draperies, blinds or wall-mounted decorative accessories with cords.

Don’t hang anything on or above the crib with a cord. n Dress baby lightly for sleep. n Pay attention when your child is napping. If your child fell asleep in the car, it can be tempting to bring the car seat inside and let them continue sleeping or let them continue napping if they fall asleep in a swing. But sleeping

in a car seat outside of its base or in a swing position puts your baby at an unsafe incline. Inclined sleeping is never safer for babies. At an incline, baby’s airway can be blocked, making it hard or impossible to breathe. “If you just don’t feel like you can move them, always be with them and have an eye on them,” Lazarus says. “They need to be moved no matter what if they’re younger than 4 months of age.” n Pay attention to your own exhaustion.

“Everybody’s tired, so you put the baby in bed with you and say you’re not going to fall asleep, but you might,” Lazarus says.

“Babies should always sleep alone.” atlantaparent.com

Water Safety Drowning is the number one cause of death for children ages 1-4, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Water safety pertains to all water activities, including swimming and bathing. “The biggest drowning threat facing families with toddlers is unexpected, unsupervised access to water: swimming pools; hot tubs and spas; bathtubs; natural bodies of water, such as ponds; and standing water in homes,” Sells says. “For example, 69% of all drownings among children ages 4 and younger happen during non-swim times.”

In the tub: n “Bathtubs, sinks and in-home devices are the leading cause of drowning for children younger than the age of 1. Keep your hands on the child if they’re younger than 1,” Lazarus says. “In a bathtub or sink, a child can drown in an inch of water and within 30 seconds. Make sure you have your hand on them all the time, and don’t rely on bath rings. Prepare for the bath before you put your child in water. Have all supplies together beforehand, including soap, shampoo and washcloths.” n “Babies can drown in as little as just 1 or 2 inches of water,” Sells says. “It can happen silently, and within seconds.

Infants don’t have much neck and muscle control. If even a small amount of water covers their nose and mouth, they won’t be able to breathe. Never leave a child alone in a bathtub or in the care of another child, even for a moment.”

At the pool: n Make sure a responsible adult is within arm’s reach of your child to supervise at the pool. “The parent is the child’s best lifeguard,” Lazarus says. “We really push an arm’s reach message, which means children younger than 6 are in arm’s reach at all times. Before the start of the summer, do a home swim test, and make sure your child can tread water for 15 seconds and swim two laps without stopping. Keep children who don’t pass this test within arm’s reach. If they can pass this test, keep in eye’s reach.” n Always empty baby pools or containers of water and turn them upside-down after use. n Get certified in CPR in case of an emergency. n “The AAP recommends swim lessons for all children and their parents, as another layer of water safety,” Sells says. “Recent studies suggest that water survival skills training and swim lessons can help reduce drowning risk for all children, including those ages 1-4 years.”

n Look into enclosing your pool with a self-latching fence that’s at least 4 feet high. The gate should open away from the pool, and the latch should be at 54 inches from the ground. n “It’s in a child’s DNA to be curious,” Johnson says. “We put sunscreen and floaties on before we leave the vicinity of the car. Or if we know there is a safe transition point far from the pool to assemble our team, we will stop there. Even if you only have one little one, they can wander from eyesight so quickly.

Unfortunately, it only takes a split second for them to find a pool.” n Don’t rely on the idea that you’ll be able to hear your child if they start drowning. “Drowning is always silent,” Lazarus says. “The child is aspirating water and can’t make any noise. You may see movement, but you won’t hear them.”

n Baby-proof bathrooms and bathtubs.

Keep toilet seats down and all bathroom doors closed. Drain water from the tub immediately after each bath. n Test the water with your wrist or elbow before putting your child in the bathtub; set water heater thermostat to 120°F. atlantaparent.com

For more safety information, check out healthychildren.org, cdc.gov and strong4life.com.

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Fun Classes for Babies and Toddlers Spend time with your toddler!

These engaging and educational classes in swimming, music and movement make learning fun.

A Splashing Good Time l Aqua-Tots Swim Schools Parent and Tot classes for 4-12 months help build confidence and teach initial skills, followed by classes for 1 year and older that build on learned skills. Multiple locations. aqua-tots.com l Big Blue Swim School Baby Blue classes for 3 months-3 years focus on breath control, back floating and more. A flexible schedule and free trial lessons are added conveniences. Johns Creek, 770-308-8227. bigblueswimschool.com l British Swim School The Tadpole class for 3 months-3 years acclimates children to the water, reducing fear. Parent-involved sessions include songs and water play.

Multiple locations, 844-576-2796. britishswimschool.com l Dynamo Swim School DynaBabies classes help babies 6 months-2 years become comfortable in the water. Preschool classes for ages 3-5 work on basic swim skills and water safety. Multiple locations. dynamoswimschool.com l Goldfish Swim School Mini lessons for babies 4-35 months teach water safety in a fun environment. Four class levels fit every age and range of experience.

Sandy Springs, 770-766-0237. goldfishswimschool.com l SafeSplash Swim School Infant and toddler swim classes for 6 months-3 years teach confidence, safety and coordination through play. Small class sizes create a supportive group environment. Multiple locations. safesplash.com l SeaVentures Baby classes for 2-35 months transition from hands-on with a parent to independent classes. Swimmers learn safety skills as well as back floating, climbing out of the water, going underwater and swimming short distances. Alpharetta, 770-992-3772. seaventures.com

The Sound of Music l Bach to Rock Designed for toddlers, the Rock ‘n’ Roll class is a weekly high-energy music and movement class, with singing, instruments and group activities.

Marietta, Alpharetta and Suwanee, 877-227-8558. b2rmusic.com

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l The Music Class Music Pups classes for ages 4 and younger are packed with singing, dancing, movement and instrument play; choose from indoor, outdoor or at-home classes. Multiple locations. themusicclass.com l European School of Music and Chess The Mommy and Me Learning Groove program for birth-4 years develops rhythm, pitch and fine motor skills through games, songs, dancing, stories and live music. Atlanta, 404-255-8382. euroschoolmusic.org l Kindermusik Classes for infants-7 years include singing, instruments, movement and stories, helping to develop a love of music in a playful environment.

In-person and virtual options are available. Multiple locations, 800-628-5687. kindermusik.com l The Learning Groove Educational songs, stories and resources, created by author Eric Litwin and musician Michael Levine, are available for parents to stream online. thelearninggroove.com

Get Moving! l Jump Start Gymnasium Designed for 3 months-4 years, Just You and Me Kid classes include movement, music and basic gymnastic skills. The 3 months to crawling class, Moving Monkeys, is free. Sandy Springs, 404-252-5867. jumpstartgym.com l The Little Gym At Parent and Child programs, kids 4 months-3 years play music, climb, and dance. The Gymnastics program for ages 3-6 teaches basic skills and confidence in a structured setting. Johns Creek, Smyrna and Snellville. thelittlegym.com l Champion Kids In the Buddy and Me class, parents and kids 15 months-3 years are led through obstacles to learn basic gymnastics, preparing them for preschool gymnastic classes. Marietta, 770-874-5200. championkids.net l Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education Creative Movement classes for 2-7 introduce children to music, teach beginner dance skills and enhance body awareness, coordination and confidence. Three Atlanta locations. centre.atlantaballet.com

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Outdoor Fun:

15 Places to Go with Babies and Toddlers Get outside and explore! These outdoor nature centers, wildlife parks, zoos and playgrounds are great spots to learn and play.

Nature Centers, Zoos and Wildlife Parks l Zoo Atlanta Get up-close and personal with more than 1,000 animals! The Adventure Cubs program features engaging activities and stories about animals that will get you and your toddler moving and creating.

Atlanta. zooatlanta.org l Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary Bears, lemurs, turtles, goats and more – the paved trails at this scenic wildlife preserve make it a great place for strollers and young walkers. Lilburn. yellowriverwildlifesanctuary.com l North Georgia

Wildlife and Safari Park

Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary

Take a guided wildlife walk and see kangaroos, lemurs, alligators, a giant tortoise and more. Young kids will love miniature farm animals at the petting zoo. Cleveland. northgeorgiazoo.com

l Chattahoochee Nature Center Connect with nature, walk the trails, and find activities for all ages.

The Pee Wee Naturalist program for ages 3-4 encourages a love of nature and wildlife. Roswell. chattnaturecenter.org l Alpaca Farms Meet dozens of cuddly, friendly alpacas at L&R Alpaca Haven Farm, where each animal has a unique personality. (Douglasville. lralpaca. com). At Creekwater Alpaca Farm, you’ll also find bunnies, goats and sheep. (Snellville. cwafarm.com) l Dunwoody Nature Center Shaded trails and a playground just for toddlers offer plenty of opportunities to play and explore. Sign up for Mommy and Me Nature Classes, with engaging activities for kids 18 months-3.5 years.

Dunwoody. dunwoodynature.org

Best Playgrounds for Babies and Toddlers These playgrounds have features like separate play areas for younger kids, soft play surfaces, shade and more. l Azalea Park Playground, Roswell. roswellgov.com l Ben Hill Park Playground, Atlanta. atlanta.gov l Brook Run Park Playground, Dunwoody. dunwoodyga.gov l Centennial Olympic Park Playground, Atlanta. gwcca.org

l Autry Mill Nature Preserve This 46-acre woodland has miles of trails, a visitor center with more than 30 animals and a historic mill. Preschool Adventures sessions for ages 3-6 include story time, hands-on activities and a craft. Johns Creek. autreymill.org

l Decatur Toy Park, Decatur. decaturdisciples.org

l Atlanta Botanical Garden A beautiful setting for strolling or playing, with kid-friendly exhibits and activities in the Children’s Garden. Programs for younger children include Garden Playtime and Garden Grooves. Atlanta. atlantabg.org

l Murphy Candler Park, Brookhaven. brookhavenga.gov

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l D.H. Stanton Park Playground, Atlanta. beltline.org l Kenwood Park Playground, Fayetteville. fayettecountyga.gov l Kidscape Village Playground, Smyrna. smyrnacity.com

l Riverside Park Playground, Roswell. roswellgov.com l Wills Park Playground, Alpharetta. alpharetta.ga.us

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PEDIATRICIANS Parents are choosy when it comes to medical care for their children.

Atlanta Parent asked readers – moms and dads like you – to nominate pediatricians they would recommend. We wanted to know what makes your child’s doctor special and you told us.

PEDIATRICIANS Axelrod, Maria, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw Bataille, Fredly, MD Intown Pediatrics, Atlanta Benaroch, Roy, MD Pediatric Physicians PC, Roswell and Alpharetta Bergman, David, MD The Pediatric Place, Johns Creek

Cline-Egri, Zachary, MD Pediatric Physicians PC, Roswell and Alpharetta Darby, Scott, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Hamilton Mill and Sugar Hill Doelling, Nancy, MD Chastain Pediatrics Concierge Service, Atlanta Ellis, Annisha, MD Wellstar Pediatric and Adolescent Center, Austell

Bhatia, Taz, MD CentreSpringMD, Atlanta and Johns Creek

Faroqui, Mahnaz, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Duluth

Bien, Elizabeth R., MD Pediatric Physicians PC, Roswell and Alpharetta

Fedack, Maryann, MD Pediatric Physicians, Alpharetta

Biggs, Jennie, MD Pediatric Physicians PC, Roswell and Alpharetta

Franklin, Jennifer, MD CentreSpringMD, Atlanta and Johns Creek

Billingsly, Tiffini, MD Premier Pediatric Associates, Atlanta

Gillman, Rachel, DO Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville and Hamilton Mill

Blackwell-Ford, Brandy, MD Wellstar East Cobb Pediatrics, Marietta Bramwell, Anna, MD Piedmont Pediatrics, Atlanta Brown, Ashley, MD Briarcliff Pediatrics, Atlanta Brown, Jina, MD Pediatric Physicians PC, Roswell and Alpharetta Cabrera, Greg, MD North Point Pediatrics, Alpharetta Campbell, Jennifer, MD North Point Pediatrics, Alpharetta

Greenwald, Jodi M., MD North Fulton Pediatrics, Roswell Hall, Angela M., MD Pearl Pediatrics, Powder Springs

Jackson, Joanne, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Hamilton Mill Jackson, Vanna, MD Sandy Springs Pediatrics, Sandy Springs Jacobsen, Sara, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville and Hamilton Mill Johnson, Wes, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville and Hamilton Mill Johnson, Yolanda, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Hamilton Mill and Sugar Hill Kazi, Megan, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville Kelly, Michelle, MD Pediatric Physicians PC, Roswell and Alpharetta Kim, Bob, MD Stepping Stone Pediatrics, Kennesaw King, David M., MD Children’s Medical Group, Atlanta

Harley, Ronnika, MD Wellstar Pediatric and Adolescent Center, Austell

Koenig, Allison, MD Piedmont Pediatrics, Atlanta

Hassel McNeil, Stephanie, MD Our Village Pediatrics, Canton

Kubagawa, Homare, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville

Heaven, Jordana, MD Woodstock Pediatric Medicine, Woodstock

Lavania, Hiral, MD One Family Pediatrics, Cumming

Chheda, Shefali, MD Harmony Pediatrics, Alpharetta

Herd, Hal, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill

Long, Mark A., MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Chin, Nicola, MD Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta

Hill, Andrea, MD Monroe Pediatrics, Monroe

Makar, Stacey, MD Zaman Pediatrics, Snellville

Clark, Gerald H., MD North Fulton Pediatrics, Roswell

Hines, Sivanthini, MD Wellstar Pediatric and Adolescent Center, Smyrna

Mauer, Catherine T., MD Henry Pediatrics, LLC, Stockbridge

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McKinnon, Elizabeth A., MD Preston Ridge Pediatrics, Alpharetta Megahed, Mona, MD East Cobb Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Marietta and Kennesaw; Harmony Pediatrics, Alpharetta Molock, Suzanne, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Hamilton Mill Muller-Dale, Stephanie, MD North Point Pediatrics, Alpharetta Overcash, Jill, MD All About Kids Pediatrics, Lawrenceville

Smiley, Susan, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill Spandorfer, Philip, MD North Atlanta Pediatric Associates, Atlanta Stebbins, Stanton, MD Pediatric Physicians PC, Roswell and Alpharetta Steele, Sharon, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Hamilton Mill Stephansson, Reanne, MD Pediatric Physicians PC, Roswell and Alpharetta

Pitts, John, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Stickney, George, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville

Pollack, Deborah, MD Dekalb Pediatric Center, Decatur

Stolle, Ashley, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Duluth

Price, LaKimberly, MD Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine PC, Atlanta

Strauss, Peter, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Quisling, Yvette, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Sugar Hill Ransom, Lindsey, MD West Atlanta Pediatrics, Lithia Springs and Dallas

Thomas, Jason, MD Family Health Centers of Georgia, Atlanta Thrower, Karen S., MD East Cobb Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Marietta and Kennesaw Virgil, Teddi, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

“Dr. Stickney always has a smile on his face and is so patient and personable. He is always prepared to answer any and all questions I have.”

Washington, Keyana, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Hamilton Mill

– Kialyn L.

Williams, Wanda, MD Kids First Pediatric Group, Stockbridge

Reisman, A. Gerald, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Dunwoody and Alpharetta Robbins, Regina, MD Wellstar KenMar Pediatrics, Kennesaw Roberts, Lisa, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Duluth Saade, Daniel, MD Wellstar West Cobb Medical Center, Marietta Sellers-Scott, Adrene M., MD Kaiser Permanente Southwood Medical Center, Jonesboro Sells, Deneta H., MD Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine PC, Atlanta Shirazi, Kathy, MD Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Lawrenceville and Hamilton Mill Shu, Jennifer, MD Children’s Medical Group, PC, Decatur Smart, Jennifer D., MD Children’s Medicine PC, Suwanee

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West, Kelly, MD North Atlanta Pediatric Associates, Atlanta Wilburn, Kelly, MD Dunwoody Pediatrics, Dunwoody and Alpharetta

Winn, Brian, MD Peachtree Park Pediatrics, Atlanta

“Dr. Sherrod is is a caring and compassionate doctor who works with patients and families to figure out what is wrong and how to get proper treatment.”

– Heidi M. Berenson, Frank, MD Panda Neurology & Atlanta Headache Specialists, Atlanta Berg, Eric, MD PENTA: Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat of Atlanta, nine metro Atlanta locations Berland, Jerry E., MD Thomas Eye Group, seven metro Atlanta locations Byars, Thomas, MD Pediatric Orthopedic Associates, 11 metro Atlanta locations Chacko, Thomas, MD Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center, six metro Atlanta locations Guillot, Lori, MD PENTA: Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat of Atlanta, nine metro Atlanta locations Harmon, Paula, MD PENTA: Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat of Atlanta, nine metro Atlanta locations Hurwitz, Eugene, MD Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia, 10 metro Atlanta locations Ingley, Avani P., MD Northwest ENT and Allergy Center, five metro Atlanta locations Mehta, Tejas R., MD Atlanta Gastroenterology Pediatric and Adolescent Division, four metro Atlanta locations

Winters-Smith, Lisa, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Parikh, Shatul L., MD Northwest ENT and Allergy Center, five metro Atlanta locations

Young, Earl, MD West Atlanta Pediatrics, Lithia Springs and Dallas

Phoenix, Vidya P., MD Thomas Eye Group, seven metro Atlanta locations

Yount, Sarah, MD Kennesaw Pediatrics, Kennesaw

Shakir, Asiya, MD Atlanta Gastroenterology Pediatric and Adolescent Division, four metro Atlanta locations

Zager, Sheri, MD Pediatric Associates of North Atlanta PC, Peachtree Corners

Sheerin, Kathleen A., MD Atlanta Allergy & Asthma, Lawrenceville and Sandy Springs

PEDIATRIC SPECIALISTS

Sherrod, Olga, MD GI Care for Kids, four metro Atlanta locations

Aaron, Geoffrey, MD PENTA: Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat of Atlanta, nine metro Atlanta locations

Thomsen, James, MD PENTA: Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat of Atlanta, nine metro Atlanta locations

Bakthavachalam, Sivi, MD PENTA: Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat of Atlanta, nine metro Atlanta locations

Tritt, Ramie, MD Atlanta ENT Sinus & Allergy Associates, PC, Atlanta

Bauer, Erik, MD PENTA: Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat of Atlanta, nine metro Atlanta locations

Videlefsky, Neill, MD Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Sibley Heart Center, Alpharetta

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