Baby Guide Spring//Summer 2024

7 BABY BITS

KEY INFO FOR PARENT NEWBIES, NEW PRODUCTS FOR SUMMER.

13 FIND YOUR PARENT GROOVE WHY SKIN-TO-SKIN MATTERS TO ALL BABIES AND PARENTS.

KNOW THE DRILL, FEEL YOUR CONFIDENCE SOAR.

Support, resources and the Middle Tennessee Hospital Chart.

BABY bits

by Susan Day

Inchstones!

Take the month-by-month photos, but also, enjoy finding even more reasons to celebrate your baby.

The teeny-tiny baby triumphs in any given day are worth celebrating when you're a new parent. Afterall, what's a new tooth without a little party to commemorate it? When you have a new baby, your days will be full of firsts — whether you notice them or not. Typically these are things like Baby holding their head up for the first time, that first little smile (that isn't gas!) and that first little giggle. The trend known as "Inchstones" is all about tuning-in and noticing those teeny-weeny accomplishments that are so substantial to Baby's larger developmental milestones.

Ditch the Comparison Trap

Inchstones is all about looking at your child’s individual capabilities and goals and enjoying their unique wins. This idea once was the domain of special needs parenting, but now it's about the smaller moments in every child's life, regardless of their developmental path. Celebrating your baby's one-of-a-kind development can help you move past the troubling tendency to compare your baby

with others.

"Often parents forget so many of the incredibly wonderful things their children do, and they get lost so easily in the chaos of life and new parenting," says Carli Stedham, a life coach for new parents. "Parents may think, 'Oh, I must remember that,' or ‘I will tell them that when they are older,’ but it slips through their fingers as other things come along. Inchstones are a way of remembering the small things," she adds.

Take lots of photos, jot down short passages and save them in a book to share with your child down the road. Practicing this mindfulness will be fulfilling for you.

Current research shows that little ones thrive when they receive support and encouragement. Inchstone parenting, in line with research, is more enjoyable for parents and children alike.

Inchstones may include rolling a ball, building a tower of blocks, or even standing alone for a few seconds. The trick is to NOT overdo the enthusiasm, but to simply acknowledge the development with positivity, knowing that every child's inchstones are different!

The Inchstone Celebration

Find the magic: This is the best part of being a parent. No matter how fast or slowly your child is progressing, when you slow down to appreciate the changes — even the smallest ones it helps you connect.

A word of caution: If you have a treat every time your child makes some sort of progress, it's going to lose all meaning like a Christmas that never ends. Remember that praise focused on effort is most effective and encourages little ones (and older) to learn from failure and mistakes.

Tiny triumphs: Any parent can make an effort to acknowledge and honor their child's tiny triumphs. Breaking down larger tasks into inchstones can help little ones achieve their milestones.

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BABY bits

Move Past That Vaccine Hesitancy in Pregnancy

When you're pregnant, you're hyper aware of what you put in your body. So naturally, you may be hesitant about new, recommended vaccines or boosters. Afterall, there seem to have been a lot of them.

Take COVID, for instance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated and stay up-to-date with COVID boosters and this includes pregnant women. While experts give it all the green light, some women are experiencing vaccine hesitancy.

Data from a 2023 Vaccine Safety Datalink research survey showed that about 73 percent of women did not get a COVID-19 booster before or during pregnancy. Yet COVID infection during pregnancy is linked to increased rates of preeclampsia, preterm birth and stillbirth.

Many pregnant women have developed vaccine hesitancy, but they need to discuss this with their doctor to get full guidance in decision making for two.

“We know pregnancy increases your risk for more severe COVID-19,” says Jennifer Thompson, M.D., an an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology and a specialist in high-risk pregnancy at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. "So if you’re considering pregnancy we would recommend getting the vaccine.”

Currently, three other immunizations besides COVID are recommended to pregnant women: RSV, influenza and Tdap. These vaccines

GOOD NEWS: Low-Dose

are widely available and will help to protect your newborn AND you. The instinct to question what you put in your body is a good one, experts say — it's protective mothering. Yet if you're experiencing vaccine fatigue, you should thoroughly discuss your concerns with your doctor. They can help you to become well informed amid a sea of misinformation in order to make a good decision for you and Baby.

Aspirin May Protect You From Preeclampsia

Both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society for MaternalFetal Medicine support a new recommendation that women who are at risk for preeclampsia start taking a baby aspirin when they are 12 weeks pregnant. Preeclampsia is a condition that causes dangerous high blood pressure before, during or after giving birth.

Those at risk for developing preeclampsia include anyone who had it during a previous pregnancy, as well as those carrying multiples, those with kidney or autoimmune disease, Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, or those with chronic hypertension. Additionally, a pregnant woman may be at risk if her first pregnancy is at age 35 or older, if she has a body mass index greater than 30 or a family history of preeclampsia. The March of Dimes is starting a campaign, "Low Dose, Big Benefits," to raise awareness among health providers and pregnant woman of this all-important news. If you are expecting or plan to be and are in a high-risk category, ask your doctor about taking baby aspirin while pregnant.

New Parent Books to Love

While there are always new titles for new parents, three truly stand out from those we've reviewed:

How to Baby: A No-AdviceGiven Guide to Motherhood (Dial Press; 2024)

By Liana Finck

Hilariously observant and spot-on, this is a refreshingly wry look at all the craziness in parenting.

The Organized Home for New Parents (Blue Star Press; 2023)

By Ria Safford

Don't resent the idea, embrace it. Getting everything together at home is extremely helpful!

The Five Principles of Parenting (Simon & Schuster; 2024) By Aliza Pressman

The trend of doing your own thing comes into razor-sharp focus here with sensible guidance for establishing your way with children.

Donate your birth tissue and save a life! Make your child’s birth even more special by donating to help others heal.

RIBBON CUTTING WITH SPECIAL GUESTS KIDS ACTIVITIES | FREE FOOD | LIVE DJ TOURS OF THE NEW WEST TOWER SCAN THE QR TO LEARN MORE Williamson Medical Center 4321 Carothers Pkwy Franklin, TN 37067

JUNE 18, 2024 3:30-6:30 P.M.

by Susan Day

Gear Up for hot weather!

Keep your baby and toddler active all summer long with these products we like.

GRIPAPOOL

INFLATABLE BABY POOL

gripapool.com

$29.99

This sturdy pool has handle rails for safety and support, a cushioned bottom and an easy draining plug. Use it without water for an indoor play spot, too. Of course, when you use it as a pool with your Little, never leave their side. It holds 15 gallons of water and has strong, vinyl anti-puncture construction.

CHARLIE BANANA REUSABLE SWIM DIAPERS

charliebanana.com

$15.99 each

A super-soft lining make these organic high-quality swim diapers a fave. Made using plant-derived materials, the diaper provides a snug fit for protection against leaks. Just toss it in the wash to reuse again. Pick up several for the summer.

FLAP HAPPY

ORIGINAL FLAP HAT

flaphappy.com

$16.95

Nothing makes us happier than seeing a baby in the sunshine with a hat on! The Original Flap Happy Flap Hat is just the one. It shields the face and neck from harmful rays and Littles love wearing them because they're comfortable. Perfect for any activity outside, these come in many different patterns and sizes from extra small to extra large. Our hands-down favorite topper!

BABY BUG BAN NATURAL MOSQUITO REPELLANT

yayaoirganics.com

$13.99

These handy-dandy wipes are extra-gentle for Baby's skin. The plant-based bug repellent is perfect for little ones with extra-sensitive skin, too. The pouch contains 12 wipes with pure, natural and organic ingredients and a fresh floral scent. Keep those nasty critters away without having to use a spray!

SUNNIES SHADES

sunniesshades.com

$25

Preorder your 'lil darlin' a pair of these indestructible and good-looking sunglasses to protect their baby blues! Shown is the "Not My Gumdrop Button" color. Polarized lenses; one hundred percent UVA and UVB protection; durable and anti-slip, these are for babies 1 to 3 years old, although Sunnies Shades are available for kids of all ages.

MOMMED DOUBLE WEARABLE

BREAST PUMP S21 mommed.com

$109.99

Summertime, but you still gotta pump! While hands-free wearable breast pumps can be quite expensive, here's an award-winning one from MomMed that won't break the bank. The inclusive design for busy moms on the go includes three modes plus 12 different levels to mimic your baby's sucking. Everything arrives in a tidy box packed with disposable milk bags, charging cables, a bra extender, replacement diaphragms and more. Charge it up then follow the easy manual to get started. (How-to product maintenance is advised in the manual as well). The quiet motor will provide peaceful pumping — up to six ounces of milk per breast at a time.

PACIFIC BREEZE BEACH TENT

amazon.com

$64.99

Baby skin shouldn't be in the direct sun — huddle down with your sweetheart in the bestselling Pacific Breeze Easy Setup Tent that provides SPF 50+. There's no use investing in a teeny tent that will only last for one season with your baby. This one fits three inside, you can set it up in your yard or at the beach on vacay and use it next year, too. It's lightweight, water resistant and easy to set up. Enough said.

by Janey Snyderman

find your parentGROOVE

With your first baby you're whole life suddenly changes!

Don't panic, be kind to yourselves and it will all fall into place.

Envision yourself standing in a powerful pose: hands on hips, chest out, chin jutting upward towards the sky. Chances are good that if you have a new baby, this is not how you feel most days. In fact, you may notice that you rarely feel this way. Why is it that new parenthood — a status so desired — is often so darned hard? It's overwhelming, loaded with insecurities and filled with sleepless nights. You probably won't recognize yourselves for quite sometime. Welcome to the world of being a new parent — and how are earth are you ever going to find your groove? Hang in there, it's possible, and it WILL happen. Many parents who have been there say it takes at least four weeks to start feeling some semblance of themselves again.

“Parenting can be very overwhelming, especially in the

beginning,” says Judy Ho, Ph.D., a triple board certified forensic neuropsychologist. “It is important to talk about how you are feeling with your partner or any other supportive loved ones who are helping you care for your newborn during this time. Make sure to have discussions about expectations, division of responsibilities and problem solving together as a team,”she adds.

Remember This is a Season

It helps to know that life will not always be like this. The first several weeks are defined by starts and stops in a hazy postpartum blur. Embrace the good, endure the difficult. Know that creative workarounds are your new go-to because you are managing someone else's life and it's completely unpredictable.

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FIND YOUR GROOVE

Get All the Help You Can

For things like a daily shower, have someone else hold Baby. For everything else, hold your baby yourself (if that's what you want to do) while other people take care of you.

"Never hesitate to ask for help," says Harvey Karp, M.D. bestselling author of The Happiest Baby on the Block "Whether it’s a postpartum doula, a nanny, meal kit delivery, leaning on your friends and family — any of these things can go a long way in easing the parenting load," he adds.

Prioritize Basic Needs

Taking care of your baby is half of the new parent job; taking care of each other is the other half. Be sure to communicate well and to talk about how you are feeling.

However, if negative thoughts persist and feel abnormal in intensity — or if they center around wanting to hurt yourself or your baby — go get help. Separate yourself from your baby and get someone to come step in.

Find ways to work with your partner on who manages the baby while you both get a little self-care in. Let your partner take the baby as soon as she wakes up so you can at least sleep a bit more until Baby's hungry. Talk together about how you can work a little give-and-take into your hours at home with the baby together. Fill up on nutrient-dense snacks. Call a friend and cry. Cry together. Do whatever you need to do and let the endless housekeeping chores take a back seat.

Babywear

Take turns wearing Baby so you can share the responsibility together. Prepare meals for yourselves and eat while your baby is napping. Learn what works for you and lean into it.

Know that Worried Thoughts are Normal

For new mamas, it's completely normal to slump on the floor crying and wonder what you're doing with your life. There will be days when you're distracted by thoughts about whether or not Baby's eating well enough or whether you should respond right way to their little cries. Sometimes worried thoughts are completely meaningless and sometimes they're just your brain's way of pointing out a potential danger so you can avoid it.

Call your doctor and get a referral to a therapist. Do not isolate. Be ready to receive more than you give. It's OK to feel selfish during this season -- your family and friends will support you while you support your baby.

Don't Doubt Yourself

A lot of incoming information will be hurtling toward you from online searches, parents, other family members and more. Don't doubt yourself. Your instincts and experience with your individual baby are better than any online information. Dr. Google can convince you that you're messing up Baby's development if you don't force them to eat and sleep on a specific schedule. You're not doing anything wrong, you are learning. Make sure you go to your pediatrician for the support and information you need.

Stay

Away from Instagram's For-You-page; YouTube shorts, Facebook videos, and TikTok. At best, these social media platforms take up your time without providing value to your life. At worst, they contribute to fear and depression. Mindless entertainment like shows or movies during contact naps is nice, but something about the short videos with an algorithm to serve you more of the same can lead to problems. Many new parents get sucked in to anything from perfect parenting videos to scary secu-

rity camera footage of babies getting hurt.

Practice Self-Acceptance

With giving so much time to Baby and very little time left for yourself and practical duties, appearances may slip a bit. Give yourself grace during this time. Wear clothing that fits comfortably, even if it’s not as fashionable as usual. Get your hair cut in a way that won’t demand styling for a while. Appreciate your natural glow. Look forward to when you will get dressed up for occasional date nights together and socializing with friends. Simplify your needs and save time and energy.

Be Calmly Informed

If you suspect there is a problem with your baby, don’t wait for matters to worsen before you act. Calmly call your pediatrician so you can determine if you need to take any steps. Illnesses can progress swiftly in infants, so pay attention to early signs before ending up in the emergency room at 3 a.m. Keep a bevy of parenting books within reach, and directly consult with intimate family and friends with trusted experience when something concerning comes up. Above all, trust your instincts.

And Life Goes On

Everything you're going through is part of your new groove: accepting that some days are better than others and that everything is in flux. As your baby grows and changes, learns new skills, develops preferences, desires independence — the whole “growing up” thing — some days will get easier while some get harder. And this will, you can know for sure, go on for … well, forever.

Janey Synderman is a freelance writer and a mom of three.

Jason Pollock, M.D.

Gregory M. Taylor, M.D.April L. Whitfield, M.D.Kelly G. Williams, M.D.

Jon Anderson, D.O.

Colleen Q. Bratsch, D.O.Brad S. Chesney, M.D.Lauren J. Christman, D.O.

THE POWER OF TOUCH

The healing benefits of skin-to-skin have been acknowledged for premature infants for years. But science shows that touch lifts up full-term and older babies too.

The comfort of a hand in your hand. The soothing quality of being held. A newborn lying on his father's bare chest. The power of human touch is well documented. It can lessen pain, worry and depression, according to new research recently published in the journal Nature Human Behavior. And there have been a lot of claims that touch is something that we all need, but what's at the root of it and what does that mean for your baby?

In 2022, European researchers looked into touch, strokes, hugs and rubs. They combed through 137 studies including adults, children and infants who experienced physical touch compared to those who had not. The positive effects of touch were particularly noticeable in premature babies, who “massively improve” with skin-to-skin contact, said study conclusions. But long before this study, doctors and nurses understood about the value of kangaroo care for premature infants. Now skin-to-skin is used for all babies. And something else — for longer.

In 2023, following a review of pediatric research, the World Health Organization recommended touch therapy for preterm or lowbirth-weight infants following birth to start as soon as possible and last eight hours or more at a time for the first few days of Baby's life.

Other similar studies on the impact of closeness between caregiver and infant have found that touch helps to develop communication, enhances the caregiver's ability to respond to their baby, and fosters bonding, secure attachment and neurodevelopment.

Additional research backs this up. For instance, in a 2017 study, researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Ohio observed 125 premature and full-term infants to see how they responded to gentle touch, like the kind they would get cuddling with a parent compared with how they reacted to touch from things that are not as gentle, like having a medical procedure done or getting an IV put in.

benefit from skin-to-skin contact? Research is saying yes. The benefits of skin-to-skin contact can continue well beyond the first few months and throughout Baby's first year if parents (and their comfort zone) are open to it.

Skin-to-skin contact releases oxytocin, the hormone that expresses positive feeling, while lowering cortisol levels (the stress hormone).

This means that while you practice skin-to-skin contact with your baby, whether they are one day old or 12 months old, you will both feel more relaxed and connected. This simple and healing practice is one of the best ways to improve your baby’s physical and emotional development.

Bonding Benefits and More

Skin-to-skin is a great practice for Dads, too, especially those who feel sort of left out when mama's doing the breastfeeding and undertaking lots of new baby tasks.

10 Reasons to Practice Skin-to-Skin Contact With Baby

• Baby is sleepy and needs a good contact nap

Just 10 minutes of skin-to-skin contact with mom or dad reduces Baby's cortisol, and increases levels of the "cuddle hormone," which stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system to make babies feel calm and safe, says Susan M. Ludington, R.N., whohas been studying kangaroo care since 1988 and conducted the United States' first research study of the method.

• Baby is not feeling well

• Baby is teething

• You’ve been apart all day and you want to reconnect

• Baby is fussy

• Baby is ready to breastfeed

• You or Baby is feeling stressed

• Your milk supply is down

• Baby is constipated or has GI discomfort

The study showed that infants who were touched gently showed more brain response than the infants who received negative touch stimuli. In other words, the type of touch matters to babies. Therefor, infants who receive plenty of cuddling and loving touches will have brains that develop more effectively than babies who do not.

Skin-to-Skin

• Baby has colic

Most new parents know that it’s important to practice skin-to-skin contact (kangaroo care) with their newborn because hospitals promote it following birth.

But what about older babies? Does a 3-month-old baby still

When you have one of those day when Baby is fussy and just won't settle, work a little sking-to-skin in. Sometimes your baby needs that extra comfort to help them be calm, feel safe, or overcome whatever they are going through. It’s really never too late to comfort your child with skin-to-skin. Extra hugs, snuggles, warmth and comfort can help their bodies regulate.

Skin-to-skin continues to enhance bonding and promotes breastfeeding. Additionally, skin-to-skin can help your baby relax, breastfeed longer, and continue to promote your milk supply.

Older babies tend to breastfeed less, but may also want to breastfeed more at any time due to needing extra comfort, illness, or other reasons. So, skin-to-skin is helpful in encouraging breastmilk production — especially if there was a dip in your milk supply.

On difficult days, skin-to-skin care may be the perfect remedy. Maybe take time for a little rocking and singing with your arms wrapped around your little one. They will feel the extra love and comfort, and that everything is fine.

If you love skin-to-skin contact, it's good news that some health and development experts recommend it for at least three months for full-term babies and six months for preemies.

Susan Day is editor of this magazine and a mom of four.

Healthy Smiles Start at a Very Young Age

Baby World

Prenatal, Childbirth, Breastfeeding & New Parent Services

Prenatal care; yoga; birth photography; breastfeeding; childbirth education; newborn services.

Baby Safety

Secure your home; locate car seat installation locations.

Storytimes Davidson / Rutherford / Sumner / Williamson counties.

Mommy & Me

BABY WORLD

prenatal services

group prenatal care

Expect With Me at Vanderbilt Centers for Women's Health

719 Thompson Lane, Ste. 27100 Nashville | 615-343-5700 522 Northcrest Drive Springfield | 615-382-2619 expectwithme.org

Prenatal care in a group setting features 10 twohour sessions. Includes a social networking feature.

Meharry Medical College

1005 Dr. D.B. Todd Jr. Blvd., Nashville 615-321-2692 | mmc.edu/about/community1/ prenatalcare/index.html

Women in this program meet in small groups and spend up to two hours in each session.

prenatal yoga classes

Chestnut Hill Yoga 1106 3rd Ave. S, Nashville 615-385-3600 • chestnuthillyoga.com

Abundant Yoga 1109 Davenport Blvd., #1000, Franklin 615-721-2747 • abundantyoga.com

BlossOMing Yoga - Virtual Classes 917-691-2385 • blossomingyoga.com

Half Moon Yoga - Virtual Classes 101 International Drive, Ste. 105, Franklin 615-496-2310 • halfmoonyoga.net

Hot Yoga - open with social distancing 807 Main St., Nashville 615-678-8079 • hotyogaofeastnashville.com

Kundalini Rising Yoga/Bethany Joy Yoga1218 Wedgewood Ave., Nashville 615-473-3467 • bethanyjoy.net

Nurture Nashville Yoga West: 992 Davidson Dr., Ste. 102, Nashville East: 1000 Fatherland St., Ste. 201, Nashville nurturenashville.com

new parent services

birth photography

Alurawayne Photography 865-548-4746 • alurawayne.com

Christie Lynn Photography 615-405-3595 • christielynnphotography.com

Karen Halbert Photography 615-394-5970 • karenhalbertphotography.com

Katy Johnson Photography 615-692-9224 • katyjphotography.com

Laura Janicek Photography 615-214-0654 • laurajanicekphotography.com

NOVA Birth Services

615-669-6399 • mynovabirth.com

Rylan's Riches Photography rylansrichesphotography.com

White Stork & Co.

615-753-1889 • whitestorkandco.com

breastfeeding, childbirth & newborn services

American College of Nurse-Midwives

240-485-1800 • midwife.org

Locate local nurse-midwives and midwifery info.

Blissful Birthing TN

859-533-4667 • blissfulbirthingtn.com

Doula services and childbirth information sessions. Online childbirthing classes.

Bradley Method Childbirth Educators

800-422-4784 • bradleybirth.com

Natural, husband-coached childbirth classes focusing on breathing and relaxation. Online classes.

Children’s Medical Group

615-883-2200 • childmedgroup.com

Comprehensive, high quality and compassionate pediatric care.

ConnectusHealth Midwifery

601 Benton Ave., Nashville 2637 Murfreesboro Pike, Nashville 615-292-9770 • connectus.org

Offers prenatal, delivery and pediatric care, birth planning, certified nurse mid-wives, on-call midwife and more. Delivers babies at St. Thomas Midtown.

Eden Birth

615-392-0577 • edenbirth.com

Hypnobabies classes in Middle Tennessee.

Expecting New Life Birth Services

615-710-7077 • expectingnewlife.com

Doula services and "Evidence Based Birth" classes now available online.

La Leche League • llli.org

Hendersonville/Sumner • 615-714-9224

Nashville • 615-861-1037 or 615-883-6823

Rutherford • 901-568-9202

Williamson • 615-830-0041 or 615-579-8019

Support and information for breastfeeding mothers.

Mama Moon Birth Concierge

615-973-2377 • mama-moon.com

Labor and postpartum doula services, prenatal massage, education, sophrology and more.

Music City Doulas

615-208-4111 • musiccitydoulas.com

Available in group, private and semi-private sessions, including in-home customizable options.

Nashville Birth and Babies

855-905-2229 • nashvillebirthandbabies.com

Certified birth doulas, breastfeeding education, lactation consultants and post-partum doulas.

Nashville Childbirth

615-370-5912 • nashvillechildbirth.com

Bradley Method private natural childbirth classes, doulas (labor and postpartum), baby care and more.

Nashville Breastfeeding Coalition nashvillebreastfeeding.org

Education for women about breastfeeding prior to delivery; removing hospital obstacles; and helping moms for the first few days at home and more.

Nashville Breastfeeding Support

615-880-2185

Metro Public Health Department's program.

Nashville 4D Baby nashville4dbaby.com

4D/HD ultrasound experiences combining cuttingedge technology with a spa & theater environment.

NOVA Birth Services

615-669-6399 • mynovabirth.com

Midwife care, doula support, childbirth class, breastfeeding class, pre- and post-natal massage.

Nurses for Newborns Foundation

615-313-9989 • nursesfornewborns.org

Registered nurses make home visits for health-care assessments, education and parenting skills.

Old Harding Pediatric Associates

615-352-2990 • ohpa.com

High quality and compassionate care, a night clinic for sick patients and an in-house dispensary for quick prescription pickup right in the office.

Roots Collaborative Care

rootscollaborativecare.com

Doula, childbirth classes including virtual classes.

Rutherford Breastfeeding Support

Murfreesboro • 615-898-7880

Smyrna • 615-355-6175

A full-time lactation consultant available through the Rutherford County Department of Health.

Southern Doula Services southerndoulaservices.com

Giving physical, emotional, and informational support to families during the transition to parenthood.

Tennessee Breastfeeding Hotline

855-423-6667

tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/fhw/bf/ breastfeeding-hotline.html

A free helpline offering breastfeeding support 24/7.

West End Women's Health Center

2611 West End Ave., Ste. 380, Nashville 615-936-5858 • westendmidwives.com

Midwifery care during pregnancy and childbirth with delivery at Vanderbilt.

Womankind

615-426-1977 • womankindmassage.com

Pre- and post-natal massage and doula services.

Vanderbilt Birth Center

3212 West End Ave Suite 100, Nashville 615-647-8220 • babyandcompany.com

Collaborative midwife, physician team for delivery.

parent groups

Child and Family Therapy Collective childfamilytherapycollective.com

A growing practice providing mental health services to children and families in Nashville.

Middle Tennessee Moms of Multiples

Facebook group.

MOMS Club (Moms Offering Moms Support) momsclub.org

Stay-at-home mothers offering connectivity throughout Middle Tennessee.

Multiples of America

multiplesofamerica.org

Support and groups in Nashville.

Naturally Minded Moms of Tennessee facebook.com/groups/612207638792487

Moms raising their families with a natural mindset.

Parents of East Nashville facebook.com/groups/1588890631391486

Playdates, conversation and idea sharing.

The Family Center familycentertn.org

Get information, support, skill building and personalized parenting insights in Murfreesboro.

miscellaneous

Attachment Parenting International

615-828-9115 or 615-210-2143 attachmentparenting.org/group/nashvill

BUMP CITY Nashville

615-630-4126 • bumpcitynash.com

Nashville's only in-person maternity shop. ICAN of Nashville icanofnashville.webs.com

Free monthly support and educational meetings.

Junior League Family Resource Center 615-936-2558 • vanderbiltchildrens.com/frc

Support to families of children with disabilities.

March of Dimes Tennessee Chapter 615-399-3200 • marchofdimes.org

Premature baby support.

Milk Bank Depot

Maury Regional Medical Center 1224 Trotwood Ave., Columbia • 931-490-7074

Nashville General Hospital 1818 Albion St., Nashville • 810-841-8644

TriStar Centennial Women's Hospital 2221 Murphy Ave., Nashville • 615-933-8877

TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center 200 StoneCrest Blvd., Smyrna • 615-768-2234 milkbanktn.org

Pre-approved donor mothers drop off frozen milk for testing and pasteurization.

My Dreamy Sleeper 615-418-2628 • mydreamysleeper.com

Works with sleep deprived parents, teaching them how to get their baby or child sleeping peacefully.

Postpartum Support International 800-944-4773 • postpartum.net

Provides local resource information for women with perinatal mood disorders.

Tennessee Office of Vital Records

615-741-1763 • tn.gov/health/article/vr-certificate Keeps and provides birth records for the state.

baby safety

American Red Cross Cannon, Rutherford • 615-893-4272 redcross.org/tn/murfreesboro

Cheatham, Davidson, Robertson, Sumner, Williamson, Wilson • 615-250-4300 nashvilleredcross.org

Instruction in CPR, first aid and babysitting.

Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt 615-936-1000 • childrenshospital.vanderbilt.org

Provides pediatric, family-centered care. Website includes safety information and car seat safety.

Safe Kids of Cumberland Valley 615-936-8222 • safekids.org

The local affiliate of the national Safe Kids Campaign led by Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt.

The Children's Hospital at TriStar Centennial 615-342-1000 thechildrenshospitalnashville.com

Pediatric ER, a neonatal intensive care unit and outpatient services.

Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital Vanderbilt at Williamson Medical Center 615-435-5000 williamsonmedicalcenter.org/kids

Comprehensive inpatient pediatric, emergency care.

Baby Items You Don't Really Need to Buy

We know it may be tempting for you to buy all the latest baby gear, but some of these items are just a waste of money (and space!). Here are a few baby products my wife and I wish we had never bought — and what to get instead:

1. A Changing Table

You probably won't be going to the nursery every time your baby needs a change (especially if you have stairs); you'll be doing it where it's most convenient like the sofa or even on the carpet. Instead, buy a portable changing pad.

2. Diaper Disposal System

If you empty your trash daily, the regular household trash can is just fine. For the poopy diapers, you can flush the solid waste down the toilet. Not about that life?A box of 200 disposable diaper sacks are available for $8 on Amazon.

storytimes

Gallatin Public Library 123 E Main St., Gallatin 615-452-1722 • youseemore.com/gallatinPL

John P. Holt Brentwood Library 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood 615-371-0090 • brentwoodtn.gov/departments/library

Hendersonville Public Library 140 Saundersville Road, Hendersonville 615-824-0656 • hendersonvillelibrary.org

La Vergne Public Library 5063 Murfreesboro Road, La Vergne 615-793-7303 • lavergnetn.gov/192/La-VergnePublic-Library

3. Baby Food Processor

These small appliances are nothing but kitchen counter clutter. A regular mini food processor will do the same thing, and you can use it well after your little one is off baby food.

4. Baby Shoes

Though they make for adorable photo shoots, avoid loading up on little newborn shoes in your child's first months. Not only do they fall off, they won't get much use since baby can't walk yet.

5. A Wipe Warmers

Skip it. They make the wipes dry out quicker. Plus, they make ideal breeding grounds for germs.

6. Diaper Bag

You don't need one of the super-fancyand-expensive diaper bags on the market. A knapsack or messenger bag does just fine!

— Michael W. Aldrich

Linebaugh Public Library 105 W Vine St., Murfreesboro 615-893-4131 • rclstn.org

MGL Memorial Library 521 Mercury Blvd., Murfreesboro 615-907-3429 • rclstn.org

Nashville Public Library Main 615 Church St., Nashville 615-862-5800 • library.nashville.org

Nashville Public Library Bellevue 720 Baugh Road, Nashville 615-862-5854 • library.nashville.org

BABY WORLD

Nashville Public Library Bordeaux 4000 Clarksville Pike, Nashville 615-862-5856 • library.nashville.org

Nashville Public Library Donelson 2315 Lebanon Pike, Nashville 615-862-5859 • library.nashville.org

Nashville Public Library Green Hills 3701 Benham Ave., Nashville 615-862-5863 • library.nashville.org

Nashville Public Library Hermitage 3700 James Kay Lane, Hermitage 615-880-3951 • library.nashville.org

Nashville Public Library Inglewood 4312 Gallatin Pike, Nashville 615-862-5866 • library.nashville.org

Nashville Public Library Madison 610 Gallatin Pike S, Madison 615-862-5868 • library.nashville.org

Nashville Public Library Old Hickory 1010 Jones St., Old Hickory 615-862-5869 • library.nashville.org

Smyrna Public Library

400 Enon Springs Road W, Smyrna 615-459-4884 • rclstn.org

Williamson County Public Library 1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin 615-794-3105 • wcpltn.org

mommy & me fun for baby art &

theater

Little Art House (Nashville)

615-933-9644 • littlearthousenashville.com

Mini Makers classes and Creative Play for little ones and parents starting at 10 months.

The Snuggery at Nashville Children's Theatre (NCT; Nashville) 615-252-4675 • nashvillect.org

Nashville Children's Theatre's professional performances for children 0 - 5 and their grown-ups.

fitness

Harpeth Gymnastics Mommy & Me

615-790-7825 • harpethgym.com

A stimulating class for moms, dads and babies ages 18 to 36 months.

Let It Shine (Franklin) 615-369-3547 • lisgym.com

Parent-and-child movement classes for 6 monthswalking; 12 - 23 months and 24 - 36 months.

My Gym (Brentwood) 615-371-5437 • mygym.com/brentwood

Tiny Tykes class for ages 4 - 22 months.

Nashville Gymnastics Training Center 615-298-2264 • nashvillegtc.com

Ages 9 -18 months build strength, coordination. Nurture Nashville studio@nurturenashville.com nurturenashville.com

BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby) for classes everyday.

music & movement

Barfield School of Dance (Murfreesboro) 615-615-896-3118 • barfieldschoolofdance.com

Kindermusik classes for newborns to toddlers. Dance Classics (Murfreesboro) 615-378-7152 • danceclassicstn.com

Fairy Tale Babies for ages 1-and-a-half to 2-and-ahalf takes place Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

Music Together (Brentwood, Franklin, Nashville, Nolensville & Spring Hill) musictogether.com

International research-based early childhood music and movement program for newborns and older. Nurture Nashville studio@nurturenashville.com nurturenashville.com

BYOB (Bring Your Own Baby) for classes everyday. School of Nashville Ballet (Nashville) 3630 Redmon Street, Nashville 615-297-2966 • nashvilleballet.com

Children's classes for ages 2 - 7.

Sound Start Early Childhood Music (Brentwood, Mt. Juliet & Nashville) 615-777-9314 • soundstartnashville.com

Music Pups for ages birth - 4 years includes singing, dancing, movement and instrument play. Vanderbilt Kindermusik (Nashville) blair.vanderbilt.edu/blair-academy/kindermusik.php Music, movement and early socialization classes for newborns and older. Cuddle and Bounce is specific to babies ages 0 - 12 months.

Paul J. Heil, M.D.

Linda D. Brady, M.D.

Jon Betts, M.D.

James Keffer, M.D.

Jennifer Ragsdale, M.D.

John Long, M.D.

Chris Smeltzer, M.D.

Kylie Cormier, M.D.

Vicky Phillips, M.D.

Kristen Powell, M.D.

Caroline Prescott, M.D.

VANDERBILT BIRTH CENTER

3212 West End Ave., Ste. 100 Nashville 615-647-8220 vanderbilthealth.com/birthcenter

MAURY REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 1224 Trotwood Ave., Columbia 931-381-1111 mauryregional.com

NASHVILLE GENERAL HOSPITAL AT MEHARRY 1818 Albion St., Nashville 615-341-4000 nashvillegeneral.org

TRISTAR NORTHCREST MEDICAL CENTER

100 NorthCrest Drive Springfield 615-698-3000 northcrest.com

ASCENSION ST. THOMAS HOSPITAL MIDTOWN

2000 Church St., Nashville 615-284-2229 healthcareascension.org

ASCENSION ST. THOMAS RUTHERFORD 1700 Medical Center Pkwy. Murfreesboro 615-396-4577 or 615-396-5376 healthcareascension.org

middle tennessee BIRTHING GUIDE

Complete care before, during and after pregnancy. Board-certified nurse midwives, health coaches and educators collaborate with physicians to provide clinical care. Education classes. Birth (in center or hospital). Lifestyle + wellness workshops. Support groups. Community events. Insurance accepted.

Family and patient-centered care with specialty RNs caring for patients in labor and delivery and the NICU. Families are given the choice to select pediatric board-certified pediatricians who promote roomingin. Free childbirth and newborn classes available along with free tours of the childbirth area.

Family-centered care. Free childbirth and breastfeeding classes. Ambulatory labor monitoring available. Birthing ball support. Analgesia/anesthesia available 24/7. High-risk pregnancy care. Recently renovated labor and delivery unit. Tennessee's first Breastmilk Depot.

Family-centered deliveries in labor and delivery suites. Care is provided 24/7 by a midwife and obstetric team. Find more at northcrest.com/services/womens-services.

Level IIIObstetric care & Neonatology Services

Accommodations in all labor rooms, including an in-house birthing center. Emergency department with 24 hour provider coverage. Full complement of childbirth classes and a breastfeeding clinic with free consultative services. Many amenities available.

State-of-the-art facility with labor and delivery suites and postpartum rooms with a view. Advanced maternal/infant services. Jacuzzi tubs for labor comfort. Flexible rooming-in options. NICU cameras. Lactation consultants. Extensive childbirth and breastfeeding classes. Breastfeeding clinic. Free tours. HIGHPOINT

SUMNER WITH ASCENSION SAINT THOMAS 555 Hartsville Pike, Gallatin 615-328-8888 mysumnermedical.com

WOMEN'S HOSPITAL 2221 Murphy Ave., Nashville 615-342-5661 tristarhealth.com

Dedicated women’s hospital with 24/7 OB/GYN ER. Customized birthing plans offering traditional and non-traditional options, including peanut balls and midwifery. Family-centered care. Skin-to-skin at all births including C-sections. Mother/infant couplet care. Dedicated high-risk unit. Web-streaming NICU cameras. Childbirth education. Lactation boutique. Breastfeeding consultants.

middle tennessee BIRTHING GUIDE

TRISTAR HENDERSONVILLE MEDICAL CENTER

355 New Shackle Island Road Hendersonville • 615-338-1000 tristarhealth.com

TRISTAR HORIZON MEDICAL CENTER

111 Hwy 70 E., Dickson 615-446-0446 tristarhealth.com

TRISTAR STONECREST MEDICAL CENTER

200 StoneCrest Blvd., Smyrna 615-768-2000 tristarhealth.com

TRISTAR SUMMIT MEDICAL CENTER

5655 Frist Blvd., Hermitage 615-316-3000 tristarhealth.com

VANDERBILT

1411 Baddour Pkwy., Lebanon 615-444-8262

vanderbilthealth.com

VANDERBILT

1221 22nd Ave. S., Nashville 615-343-5700 vumc.org

4321 Carothers Pkwy., Franklin 615-435-5000 williamsonmedicalcenter.org

• Level IINeonatal

The Birth Center includes LDRPs for both high- and low-risk pregnancies. Maternal-fetal monitoring & anesthesia available 24/7. Lactation boutique with specialized services + ongoing support. Immediate skin-to-skin support with all births. Natural childbirth supported. Private NICU suites with parental sleeping, individual breast pump & free meals. NICVIEW cameras allow parents and desired family/friends from around the world to view their baby 24/7.

Nine private birthing suites. Dedicated 1:1 laboring nurses. Access to lactation consultants. Family refreshment center. NICVIEW cameras allow parents and desired family/friends from around the world to view their baby 24/7.

Family-centered environment with labor rooms offering a home-like atmosphere equipped with birthing balls, aromatherapy and nitrous oxide for a customized experience. Board-certified OB/GYN care with remote fetal monitoring and 24/7 neonatology coverage. NICVIEW cameras offer families 24/7 live viewing of their NICU baby. On-staff lactation consultants. Breastmilk Depot and the only Baby Café in Tennessee.

Family-centered unit providing care for low- and high-risk pregnancies. Dedicated OB emergency department staffed 24/7 by an OB Hospitalist. Wide variety of education classes available. Supportive of individualized birth plans. NICVIEW cameras provide live streaming video allowing parents, family and friends the ability to see the baby remotely.

Patient-centered services. Fetal monitoring. Infant hearing screening. Nurse anesthetist services. Pre and postpartum care. Private room for labor, delivery and recovery. Educational resources and support.

Family-centered care. Flexible rooming-in options. Childbirth and breastfeeding education. Midwife, obstetrician and maternal fetal specialist team coverage available 24/7. Largest midwifery team in Tennessee. Highest level neonatal ICU. Ease of access to pediatric specialists at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital.

All staff trained in neonatal resuscitation. Classes include childbirth, breastfeeding and sibling. Tours provided. 24-hour staffed newborn nursery and in-house NNP neonatology coverage available. Rooming-in, family-centered care, room service, daily certified lactation staff and professional photography available.

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Ser vices Key:

Level I: Facility provides basic care for uncomplicated maternity and neonatal patients who are low risk.

Level II-Obstetric: Facility provides a broad range of maternal-fetal services for normal patients and for those with mild or moderate obstetric illnesses or complications.

Level II-Neonatal: Facility provides specialty services for infants born at or beyond 32 weeks who have problems that are expected to resolve rapidly and are not anticipated to need subspecialty care on an urgent basis. These units provide care for babies convalescing after intensive care.

Level III-Obstetric: A broad range of maternal-fetal services for normal patients and those in need of intensive care. Can handle deliveries for all gestational ages.

Level III-Neonatal: Provides care for infants born less than 32 weeks or with complex medical conditions. These units have the means to provide life support for as long as needed.

Level IV-Neonatal: Has capabilities of Level III units with additional functions and considerable experience in the care of the most complex and critically ill newborns. Pediatric medical and surgical specialty consultants are on site 24 hours per day. Can provide surgeries for complex conditions.

When it comes to delivering babies, we have been the trusted choice for over 100 years

When it comes to delivering babies,

we have

been the trusted choice for over 100 years

Welcoming a newborn is one of life’s most extraordinary moments. At Saint Thomas, you’ll find a warm, customized experience designed to make this moment truly special.

Welcoming a newborn is one of life’s most extraordinary moments. At Saint Thomas, you’ll find a warm, customized experience designed to make this moment truly special.

• Robust Prenatal Education classes

• Robust Prenatal Education classes

• Private labor and delivery rooms

• Private labor and delivery rooms

• Birthing center with homelike comforts

• Birthing center with homelike comforts

• Obstetric anesthesia care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

• Obstetric anesthesia care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

• Family-centered cesarean sections, with clear drapes by request

• Family-centered cesarean sections, with clear drapes by request

• Private postpartum rooms

• Private postpartum rooms

• Comprehensive education programs

• Comprehensive education programs

• Level II neonatal intensive care unit with NicView camera system

• Level II neonatal intensive care unit with NicView camera system

• Enhanced lactation support

• Enhanced lactation support

Learn why more mothers choose Saint Thomas to deliver their babies than any other hospital in Middle Tennessee at StHealthBaby.org.

Learn why more mothers choose Saint Thomas to deliver their babies than any other hospital in Middle Tennessee at StHealthBaby.org.

For personalized guidance, contact a Women’s Care Navigator at 629-239-8812 or scan the QR code.

For personalized guidance, contact a Women’s Care Navigator at 629-239-8812 or scan the QR code.

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