Rochester Baby Guide 2015-2016
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Rochester Baby Guide 2015-2016
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Rochester
Contents*
Baby
Guide • 2015 Edition
short stuff
6 / An Introduction from our Publisher 8 / Noteworthy
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out & about
10 / Five Stroller-Friendly Walking Paths
preparing for baby
12 / Beyond the Registry - Great Gifts for New Moms
health & wellness
16 / The Benefits of Breastfeeding 18 / When Baby Comes Early - Strategies for Coping When Your Baby is in the NICU 21 / Finding Dr. Right - How to Choose a Primary Care Provider for Your Child 24 / Supporting Healthy Moms & Babies - How 3 Area Organizations are Promoting Health & Well-Being
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parenting
28 / Surviving Your First Year as a Stay At Home Mom 31 / A Letter to the Expectant Mama - 9 True Cliches About Motherhood 33 / Rose-Colored Onsies
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resources
36 / Area Support Services, Groups and Resources
on the cover
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50+ community resources 36 5 area stroller-friendly walking paths 10 benefits of breastfeeding 16 beyond the registry - gifts for new moms 12 helping your newborn sleep like a baby 17 surviving your first year as a stay-at-home mom 28
Rochester Baby Guide 2015-2016
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publisher's note
// By Barbara Melnyk
Oh, baby!
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elcome to the 15th edition of our Rochester Baby Guide produced by Rochester and Genesee Valley Parent
Magazine, Rochester’s best resource for parents and families. We know that whether you are expecting your first child and new to the parenting game, or are well-versed in the
Baby Guide Staff
ways of child-rearing, raising a family can be an exciting (yet stressful) time. In this edition, we bring you some great advice, connections, and local resources that will help you along that journey and help you raise a happy and wholesome family.
publisher Barbara Melnyk - mail@gvparent.com EDITOR & creative director Jillian Melnyk - editor@gvparent.com Community Support Editor Carol Harvey
Missed previous editions? Catch up on Baby content and find more pregnancy and maternity related articles on our website at www.RocParent.com
Account Executives Kenneth Stevens
As your child grows, be sure to pick up copies of Rochester and Genesee Valley Parent Magazine, our free, bi-monthly family magazine which is available at more than 400 area locations around the Rochester area! Be sure to visit us online at www.RocParent.com and our special section for new parents in Age & Stages > Rochester Baby Guide.
Happy Parenting!
Copyright 2015, by GVP, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not necessarily constitute an endorsement or necessarily reflect the opinions of this publication.
Rochester Baby Guide Rochester and Genesee Valley Parent Magazine PO Box 25750 Rochester, NY 14625 (p) 585.348-9712 (f) 585.348-9714
www.RocParent.com
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www.RocBabyOnline.com
Online what you can find at www.rocbabyonline.com Our RocBaby website is a dedicated space for new and expecting parents. Filled with helpful information, area resources, and continually fresh content, you'll find everything you need for you and baby.
expert advice Rochester-area experts will offer advice and tips for new parents including health information, family safety, fitness, and much more.
area resources Looking for a daycare, health provider, or resource for your new family? Our online resource guides will help you find everything you need.
out and about Looking for a support group or area moms' club? Want to attend a local library storytime? We have you covered! Our Baby Calendar features local events with new parents in mind.
archive
Our expansive online archive includes a variety of articles featuring topics on pregnancy, childbirth, new parenting, advice, and much more.
Rochester Baby Guide 2015-2016
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Noteworthy
1 in 9
According to the March of Dimes Foundation, one in nine babies is born premature each year in the United States. The foundation defines preterm birth as a baby born before 37 weeks gestation. Read more on page 18.
pink’s history as a feminine color in our culture is less than 100 years old. Researchers at National Association for the Education of Young Children report that gendered toys are less educational than gender-neutral playthings. read more on page 33.
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Resources can keep you knowledgeable and engaged as a parent. Sign up for “text4baby” to receive educational tips on your cellphone during your pregnancy and throughout your baby’s first year of life. Visit www.292baby.org for the world’s largest selection of educational videos about early childhood. Read more on page 24.
To find other moms to connect with either in person or online, Mothering.com is a popular website with thousands of members talking about a multitude of topics and issues important to moms. learn more about resources for stay-at-home moms on page 28.
Women who breastfeed lose the additional weight they gain during pregnancy more quickly and are at a lower risk for postpartum obesity than women who bottle feed. Read more about the benefits of breastfeeding on page 16. 8
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out and about
// By Carol Harvey
5 stroller-friendly walking paths T
here's nothing more invigorating than a nice walk in the park but if you're pushing a baby stroller through a gravel pathway it can become a chore. Here are some parks in the Rochester area that offer paved pathways for your enjoyment. Babies enjoy stroller rides and the opportunity to explore the world. Parents enjoy the exercise and many babies sleep more soundly after a stroller ride outdoors. So, put on your walking shoes and enjoy a stroll with your baby right here in Rochester.
High Falls Brown's Race District
74 Browns Race, Rochester, New York 14614 325-2030, www.cityofrochester. gov/highfallsmuseum The Pont De Rennes bridge is located in the Brown's Race Historic District at the base of the High Falls where it spans the Genesee River. The bridge provides unobstructed views of the High Falls and downstream gorge and offers a scenic stroller-friendly walk.
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Highland Park
180 Reservoir Ave, Rochester, New York 14620 428-5990, www2.monroecounty.gov/parks Highland Park offers seasonal events, a sunken garden, a reservoir and the restored Lamberton Conservatory as well as paved walking paths that wind through wooded areas.
www.RocBabyOnline.com
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park
353 Court St,, Rochester, New York 14607 428-7541, www2.monroecounty. gov/parks This beautiful downtown park has undergone extensive renovation in recent years. The colorful playground provides a water spray park, benches, picnic tables and the paved walkways are perfect for strollers.
Port of Rochester
1000 North River St, Rochester, New York 14612 428-5990, www.cityofrochester. gov/portofrochester The Port of Rochester is located on Lake Ontario where the Genesee River meets the lake, about 9 miles north of downtown Rochester. The Port of Rochester offers a variety of paved walking areas and wonderful scenic views.
Seneca Park
2222 St. Paul Street, Rochester, New York 14621 753-7275, www2.monroecounty. gov/parks Seneca Park provides three picnic shelters, the newly renovated Wegman Lodge, playgrounds, scenic views of the Genesee River gorge, hiking trails, open fields and large pond with a paved walking path.
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preparing for baby
// By Alyssa Chirco
beyond the registry great gifts to give new moms
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aby registries are a wonderful tool for helping new parents stock their nursery with the many infant essentials every growing family needs. But while these registries include important items like car seats and travel systems, they also tend to overlook gifts that can help a new mom relax, celebrate and adjust to her new role in life. Next time you are shopping for a new or expectant mom, consider going off the registry and purchasing one of these thoughtful, more personal gifts instead. If you're about to become a new mom yourself, why not forgo the traditional burp cloths and diapers and add some of these items to your registry list instead.
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Maternity Photo Session. Maternity photos are a wonderful way for an expectant mom to commemorate her pregnancy. If you think she may be interested in documenting the actual birth of her baby, you could even hire a birth photographer to take photos during delivery.
Newborn Photo Session. New moms love to have lots of pictures taken, but the cost of newborn photos can add up quickly. A session with a professional photographer is a gift she will remember forever, especially if you spring for a couple of the prints.
Maternity Massage. Pamper her with the gift of a massage to relax her tired muscles and soothe her aches and pains. Be sure to find a skilled practitioner who is knowledgeable about the do’s and don’ts of massage during pregnancy.
Pre-delivery Pedicure. Few moms can reach their toes during those final months of pregnancy, so why not give her a gift certificate to get her nails prepped and polished before delivery? Better yet, schedule the appointment and go along with her for a pre-baby girls’ day out.
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Prenatal (or Postnatal) Yoga Classes. Studies suggest that yoga can improve sleep, decrease anxiety and help mothers prepare for (and recover from) labor and delivery. Since many yoga
studios and community centers offer drop-in classes, it’s easy to buy a punch card she can use whenever she likes.
Magazine Subscription. With so many parenting mag-
Don’t Forget About Dad Mom may get most of the glory – and the gifts – when a new little bundle of joy arrives, but don’t forget about Dad. Today’s fathers are highly involved, hands-on parents, so don’t they deserve a few baby gifts too? Here a few ideas:
Push Pack.
Help a nervous dad-to be support his partner during labor by creating what some refer to as a “push pack.” Include items like high protein snacks, aromatherapy candles and a book of relaxation techniques to help both parents through the delivery.
Daddy Diaper Bag.
Mom shouldn’t be the only one responsible for changing diapers. Look for a more masculine backpack or messenger bag style, or you can even order a diaper bag emblazoned with the logo of his favorite Major League Baseball team online. While you are at it, visit CafePress.com and order a “Real Men Change Diapers” T-shirt for him too.
Book About Being a Dad.
If he’s the type that will enjoy a humorous, light-hearted take on fatherhood, try The New Dad’s Survival Guide by Scott Mactavish. For a more serious, look at what dads should expect, give him a copy of The Expectant Father by Armin A. Brott. azines available both in print and in digital format, it won’t be hard to find one she will appreciate. Give the gift of a year-long subscription as a resource to help her through that first year of new motherhood.
Bubble Bath Basket. Fill a basket with an assortment of luxurious bath salts and bubble bath products so she can soak away her stress. Include some cocoa butter massage cream, which can minimize stretch marks, for her to apply after the bath.
Breastfeeding Basket. If you know she’s planning to breastfeed, fill a basket with items to make her experience easier. Nursing pads, purified lanolin nipple ointment, a comfy nursing tank top and a copy of the book Breastfeeding Made Simple by Nancy Mohrbacher are all good places to start.
Coffee Shop Gift Card. New moms are notoriously sleep-deprived, and caffeine is a perfect antidote to all those sleepless nights. If she isn’t a coffee drinker or prefers to avoid caffeine, opt for a selection of her favorite herbal teas instead.
Cleaning Service. Even if you can afford only a month or two, any new mom will appreciate having somebody else take responsibility for the dusting and vacuuming while she recuperates and bonds with baby.
Service Coupon Book. What do new moms need most in those first few weeks after giving birth? Help. Create a coupon book filled with coupons she can redeem for services like grocery shopping, running errands and holding the baby while she showers.
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Postpartum Doula. The word doula literally means “woman’s servant.” While some doulas serve women during labor, a postpartum doula focuses on a mother’s physical and emotional needs after delivery. And as any experienced mom knows, postpartum support is one of the best gifts you can receive.
Meal Train Website. It’s easy – and free – to set up an interactive, online meal calendar at MealTrain. com, but it’s also a perfect gift for a hungry new mom. Invite her friends and family to participate so that after baby’s birth she receives delicious meals delivered right to her doorstep.
High-Quality Baby Carrier. Baby carriers have gained popularity in recent years, but not all brands are created equal. Give her the gift of a high-quality carrier like a Mei Tai or Stretchy Wrap so she can carry baby hands-free, and feel comfortable and safe while doing so.
Mom’s Group Membership. Help her get out of the house and meet new friends by investing in a membership with a local mom’s group in her name. Or buy a gift certificate for a Mommy and Me activity – think infant massage, music circles or a stroller fitness class – in your area.
meal service subscription. A subscription to an online meal-prep service like BlueApron.com will take the guess-work out of what's for dinner.
Maternity/Nursing Lingerie. Most moms feel a bit frumpy during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Help her feel beautiful by wrapping up some fashionable (yet comfortable) loungewear or lingerie designed specifically with a new mom in mind.
Bottle of Champagne. The jury is still out on whether or not women can indulge in alcohol safely during pregnancy, but most experts agree that once baby arrives, a celebratory toast is perfectly okay. And what better way to celebrate the birth of a baby than by helping a new mom toast the amazing journey she has just begun.
Alyssa Chirco is a freelance parenting journalist who writes regularly about parenting and family life for regional parenting publications throughout the U.S. and Canada. 14
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health & wellness
// By Dr. Ruth Lawrence
breastfeeding
the benefits for mom & baby
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any women think about how they will feed their baby long before they become pregnant. It’s important for every woman to have the opportunity to make an informed decision and know all the facts. Much research and experience has been collected recently about the tremendous value of breastfeeding for both the mother and infant. While these thoughts are not new, the new documentation has become very substantial.
How Breastfeeding Benefits Babies Advantages to the infant include bonding between mother and baby through the physiologic manner in which the baby nurses at the breast, which is quite different from sucking on a bottle. The infant has been sucking in-utero from about 14 to 16 weeks gestation and knows the proper action of the tongue and the swallowing mechanism very well. Another advantage for the infant includes the fact that it is perfect nutrition for overall growth and development, especially for the brain. Exclusively breast-fed infants have been shown to score better on intelligence tests and developmental tests. In addition to nutrition, breastfeeding provides protection against infection. Breast-fed infants have a low incidence of otitis media, pneumonia, diarrhea and other infections. The immunologic protective components in human milk provide ongoing protection until the baby is weaned and beyond – no matter how
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old the infant is at the time of weaning. Human milk contains many protective properties that result in an apparent reduced incidence of childhood onset cancer, diabetes and Crohn’s Disease. Don’t underestimate the short-term and long-term breastfeeding benefits for mothers as well.
Be Patient with Yourself Many mothers worry that they won’t know how to breastfeed. Breastfeeding is not a reflex for the mother but rather a learned procedure. But the baby, who is born to breastfeed, knows exactly what to do. Read books about breastfeeding before delivery, like The Nursing Mother’s Companion by Kathleen Huggins, to gain familiarly on the subject. Women should also consider attending local breastfeeding group meetings before delivery. La Leche League International has local groups all over the world. Four groups meet in the Rochester area – North, Southeast, South and West. Call
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Lifeline at 275-5151 to locate your nearest group. Breastfeeding mothers, mothers-to-be and babies are welcome to attend. Your obstetrician’s office can also provide breastfeeding information and your hospital of delivery usually has a session on breastfeeding in their preparation for child birth series. Some mothers worry about breastfeeding because they need to go back to work. This does not mean you can’t breastfeed. Any time spent breastfeeding (one week, two, three, or a few months) is a very good investment in the infant’s well-being. There is plenty of help for working mothers. In some circumstances, women can return to work and arrange to feed their baby at daycare
while they work, or pump at work and save the milk for the baby the next day.
Focus on the First Few Days The first few days of breastfeeding in the hospital are very important. The first opportunity to breastfeed is right after birth. The World Health Organization and UNICEF “Baby Friendly” guidelines suggest that every mother have the opportunity to put her baby to breast within the first hour following delivery. The baby is ready and eager and it is the perfect opportunity to interact with the infant for the first time. The bedside nurses in the birth center or the delivery room will help mother
how breastfeeding benefits mothers Short-term Benefits • When one breastfeeds, the uterus responds and contracts which contributes to a reduced loss of blood and a more prompt return to the pre-pregnancy state • Women who breastfeed lose the additional weight they gain during pregnancy more quickly • Breastfeeding mothers are also at lower risk for postpartum obesity than women who bottle feed Long-range Benefits • Women who breastfeed have a decreased incidence of osteoporosis, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer • Many women describe a tremendous feeling of well-being while they are breastfeeding • Women with diabetes are often in much better control of their disease during the period of lactation position herself and the baby so the feeding will go smoothly. Actually, a baby placed on its mother’s abdomen and left to his own resources will find his way to the breast and latch on if not interfered with. Babies are born to breastfeed. Following this initial experience at the time of delivery, a mother should be ready to breastfeed the infant whenever the infant demonstrates interest in feeding. Interest in feeding is manifested by the baby bringing his own hands to his mouth or getting more active and rooting around. Crying is a late sign of hunger. Babies latch on and feed much more effectively if they are fed before they get frantic. While in the hospital, ask for help. It should not hurt to breastfeed. If it does hurt, it’s because the baby has not latched on correctly so ask for help in getting the baby adjusted comfortably. When discharged from the hospital, plans for follow-up should be made with the pediatrician and the lactation support person in the pediatrician’s office. They will want to see the baby within a few days and see how things are going.
Knowing How Much is Enough Some mothers are uncomfortable not knowing exactly how much milk the baby receives when breastfeeding. You can tell if the baby is getting milk by listening for swallowing sounds and seeing a little milk drip from the breast during a feeding. In addition, the baby’s weight and output should be monitored. A well-fed, breastfed baby in the first month of life should have at least three seedy yellow stools per day. The baby also should wet at least six or seven diapers a day. With disposal diapers, it is often hard to be sure they have wet, although the weight of the diaper will change. Breastfeeding is a wonderful opportunity to provide a lifetime of good health and is the most precious gift a mother can give her infant. If there is illness, it may be a life-saving gift, and, if there is poverty, it may be the only gift.
Dr. Ruth Lawrence is the Medical Director of the Breastfeeding and Human Lactation Study Center and a Professor of Pediatrics, Obstetrics/Gynecology at Golisano’s Children’s Hospital at Strong in Rochester. Rochester Baby Guide 2015-2016
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health & wellness
// By Karyn Robinson-Renaud MSW, RSW
when baby comes early
13 strategies for coping when your baby is in the nicu
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hen most of us get pregnant, we prepare the room and think about names. We fret about whether we will have a natural birth or forgo being a hero and befriend the anesthesiologist. Few of us plan ahead for a premature delivery and the chaos it can bring. According to the March of Dimes Foundation, one in nine babies is born premature each year in the United States. The foundation defines preterm birth as a baby born before 37 weeks gestation. As a social worker in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), I am very aware of the impact a premature delivery can have on the whole family. However, when my own baby was born at 26 weeks, l learned firsthand how important self-care was during this difficult time. Below are tips that I used to cope and that I recommend to others.
Rejuvenate in small bits. Depending on how complex your baby’s issues are, you may be in for a long
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haul in the NICU. You need to find simple ways to re-energize so that you can continue to attend to your baby and your other responsibilities. Some quick ideas to get you started are deep breathing breaks, using a short guided meditation phone app; a 10-20 minute walk around the block or a walk around the main floor of the hospital listening to your favorite music; or nothing at all.
Accept Support. When your child is in the NICU, it is not time to try and do it all.
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Your baby needs a sane parent. If loved ones are offering support, accept it. Make a list of things that would ease the pressure for you and share it with your family. Typical things are food preparation, transportation to and from the hospital,
childcare, grocery shopping and housekeeping.
Acknowledge your losses. With this pregnancy, you have lost carrying your child to term, holding your baby right after delivery and going home with your baby soon after
delivery. Depending on the severity of your or your child’s situation, you may have experienced other losses as well. Taking the time to acknowledge your emotional pain around this experience does not negate what you are grateful for. You have to give yourself the space to feel both the good and the bad of this unexpected experience.
Admin time. Paperwork may be the last thing you want to deal with. However, there are usually forms that have to be completed, whether related to your maternity leave, hospital costs, or childcare for your other children. It will be a weight off your shoulders to tackle a bit of it each day. Help others. If you have been in the NICU for a few weeks, you may feel ready to reach out to other parents in the unit. Help them and yourself by checking in and sharing the little milestones reached and the frustrating setbacks.
Ban perfectionism. Accept that you will make mistakes. The staff will guide you and keep your baby safe. You will probably feel clumsy the first time you change your baby’s diaper or try to put her to the breast. Cut yourself some slack and keep learning and trying new skills to care for your baby.
Journal it out. Sometimes you just don’t feel like talking, but you still need to sort through your feelings. Journaling is a great way to process what you are feeling and to capture your family’s journey in the NICU.
Listen to your body. It is so easy to push through fatigue and fear and drive yourself into the ground. If your body is
quietly telling you to slow down, don’t wait until it is screaming at you and you have no choice. Take a break from the hospital. I know this is easier said than done. However, if your baby is stable, take a day off so that you don’t burn out.
Couple time. If you are in a relationship, squeeze in simple things you can do together. You could take a break between feeds and go for a walk or a meal. You can text supportive messages to one another. Also, accept that each of you may cope with this situation differently. Don’t hold it against your partner for not being in the same emotional place as you.
Squeeze in play. This may sound ridiculous, and to be fair, it may not always fit with your baby’s status. But when your baby is stable and the nursing staff gives the thumbs up, consider reading or singing to your child. When you are away from the hospital, consider using play as a way to connect with your partner or other children. Cards or a board game are low energy ways to squeeze it in.
Talk to a professional. Most NICU’s have a social worker who can provide emotional and practical support. Another option is to find out if you or your partner's company has an Employee Assistance Program. You can get free professional counseling by phone, online or in person through this service. Your family doctor may also be a good resource for connecting you to a therapist.
Become part of the team. For most parents, the NICU is an intimidating place. However, you are your child’s consistent
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caregiver. Make notes about things that you observe about your baby. Write down your questions and concerns and discuss them with the staff involved with your baby. As you gain more knowledge about your baby’s condition, you will become a more confident part of your child’s team.
Sleep when you can. Between expressing breast milk, meeting with hospital staff, getting the baby’s room ready and other responsibilities, sleep can feel like a faraway place you never get to travel to. However, sleep impacts your milk supply and is a buffer for postpartum depression. So nap at home, in your parked car, or in the parent lounge.
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Try incorporating the strategies that you feel will make the biggest difference. Set reminders for yourself so you remember to follow through with your self-care plan throughout the week. Despite this being a difficult time, using the above tips can make a difference with your ability to cope.
Karyn is a freelance writer and social worker. She lives in Canada with her husband and two daughters. Karyn is happy to share her preemie is thriving and doing well now.
health & wellness
// By Dr. Neil Herendeen
Finding Doctor Right
how to choose a primary care provider for your child
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irst-time parents have so many decisions to make and often can get overwhelmed with well-meaning advice. One of those decisions is choosing a primary care provider (PCP) for your new baby. We are fortunate in the Rochester area to have many outstanding pediatricians, family medicine providers and nurse practitioners in our community. With so many good healthcare options to choose from, your decision may come down to convenience, availability and compatibility. Most commonly, parents choose their child’s pediatrician during the last trimester of pregnancy as part of the preparation for their baby's birth. It is important to solicit friends and family for recommendations regarding a pediatric office since they know your personality traits and might be helpful with matching you with a practice that would suit you well. Here are factors you should take into account when making your decision.
Availability and Convenience Not all practices are accepting
new patients and some will only take patients from a specific geographic location, so make sure the office is taking new patients before you get your heart set one PCP. If you grew up in the area and liked your pediatrician, call and ask if she would care for your new baby as well. Pediatricians love to continue their relationships with the next generations. (He might even share a story or two with your child about what Daddy was like when he was growing up.) Look in your neighborhood or near your workplace or childcare center. You will be seeing your pedia-
trician frequently in the first two years, so think about how a trip to the doctor will fit into your daily routine.
Personal Attributes Is your pediatrician someone you feel comfortable talking to? Is there a nurse practitioner available to discuss your concerns and fears? These
qualities are best examined with a personal interview. Most offices welcome new parents with a prenatal interview, but be sure to ask if there is a charge for this consultation.
Office Staff A well-run office begins with a courteous voice when you first
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call for an appointment and ends with billing staff that can answer your insurance questions. Does your pediatrician’s office welcome your call, provide information, and respond in a compassionate manner? Try to understand the triage system for acute and routine concerns. Solo practitioners will have a much different feel than a large practice, but you might be trading off services that the large office can provide like a lactation consultant or extended evening and weekend appointments.
Waiting Times for Appointments Most local providers make time to see children for illness concerns on the same day that you call. On the positive side, this means that you will see a provider you know and trust in both good times and bad. On the down side, this may
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mean you have to wait for your appointment when the provider is running behind during the illness seasons. If you hate waiting, ask the secretary at the front desk what the average wait times are to see the doctor or what time of day you should schedule your appointment to minimize the wait.
Credentials Credentials (including where the physician was trained) tend not to predict much when it comes to parent satisfaction. Knowing where your provider trained is less important than knowing his communication style and personality. The training process after college to become a pediatrician includes four years of medical school along with three years of pediatric residency training. She must then pass a thorough examination of pediatrics in order to be “board certified.” Pe-
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diatric nurse practitioners must complete a Masters degree in nursing with clinical experience focused on caring for children and families. With a life-long commitment to keeping up on the latest medical knowledge, providers must complete at least 50 hours of continuing medical education each year. Teaching is what pediatrics is all about. Pediatricians help teach parents how to care for their children, teach children how to care for themselves, teach communities how to keep children safe and maximize their development, and teach the next generation of medical providers that how you do it is as important as what you do. Since all of you can remember a favorite teacher when you were growing up, think about the attributes of that teacher and use them to pick your primary care provider. Initially, you may not think that you
want student doctors involved in your child’s care; however, the best pediatricians are often sought out by the medical school because they are the best teachers. Your pediatrician will also tell you that having medical students and pediatric residents in his office keeps him stimulated and on top of the latest advancements in medicine. Try not to get too anxious over the decision. Just like that paint color you picked for the baby’s room, it will either be perfect, grow on you with time, or drive you crazy, at which point you can make a more experienced choice next time.
Dr. Neil Herendeen is Director of Pediatrics at Golisano Children’s Hospital and is the Medical Consultant for 292 BABY.
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Rocparent.com & rocbabyonline.com
From baby to teen, your essential family resources
health & wellness
// By John Boccacino
supporting healthy moms & babies how 3 area organizations are promoting health & well-being
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he Rochester area contains a wealth of information for new parents. Organizations such as 292-BABY, the Healthy Baby Network, and the March of Dimes contain information on such important topics as early cognitive development, breastfeeding, vaccinations, adoptions and allergies. Jim Coffee, founder of 292-BABY, and other early childhood advocates are adamant about the importance of properly developing a child’s brain in the first three years to avoid behavioral and learning problems that can plague them later in life.
“We have billions of brain cells, but each one of us has to have those cells connect in order for the brain to communicate and function properly,” says Jim Coffee, who is also a professor at Monroe Community College. “The human brain is programmed to allow stimulation, but only for so long, and if the proper wiring doesn’t take place in the first
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three years, it won’t happen. In those low-income neighborhoods, we’re finding the babies’ brains aren’t being wired properly for future development."
292-BABY When Jim Coffee first came up with the idea for 292-BABY 20 years ago, a network of resources for new and expectant mothers, the Internet was
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still in its infancy, smart phones did not exist, and access to updated information 24-hours a day was almost unheard of. Coffee’s brainchild, 292-BABY, was originally conceived as a voice-activated program on your television. Mothers could deliver a query such as “what is the proper temperature for an 18-month-old child?” and with hours of pre-recorded infor-
mation readily available, the television would automatically search through its database and playback the most relevant video for the mother. Today, thanks to the Internet, new and expectant mothers have more information available than ever before when it comes to child birth and child rearing. 292-BABY is one of many easy-to-use,
interactive networks of resources — featuring access to education, The human information and brain is programmed practical skills to allow stimulation, but only training — for expectant for so long, and if the proper mothers in wiring doesn’t take place in Rochester and the first three years, it the surrounding won’t happen." areas. – Jim Coffee, 292-BABY founder of 292-BABY offers parents and grandparents three ways to access its vast the same network of resources which access to inforincludes an informative mation, care, and research website (www.292BABY.org), related to raising a healthy a hotline (585-292-BABY) child. “Our goal is to help all where mothers can talk live mothers optimize their pregwith registered nurses daily nancy while having all of the from 7 am to midnight, and available resources that lead to also a television show on Time a healthy pregnancy. We focus Warner Cable (channel 4) on racial and socioeconomic where baby-specific programs disparities, which are pretty are broadcast daily. The 15-20 stark in Monroe County,” nurses who answer the 292Deutsch says of the mission BABY hotline come from the statement for the Healthy Via Healthy call center, and Baby Network. to date they have answered more than 14,000 phone calls. “Babies of parents in lower-inThe television network has come families are 2-3 times expanded to include 33 hours more likely to not make it to of content in 130 unique vidtheir first birthday. That is eos covering everything from unacceptable," says Deutsch. preconception and pregnancy "African-American babies are to breastfeeding and brain four times as likely as white development. babies to not make it to their For more information on first birthday, while Latino 292-BABY’s weekly broadcast babies are three times as likely schedule, visit http://292bato not see their first birthday.” by.org/files/2015/04/292To help correct this socioecoTV-schedule.pdf. If you miss nomic disparity in raising a a scheduled broadcast, Coffee healthy baby, Deutsch says said all of the pre-recorded the Healthy Baby Network video segments are available has assembled an outreach on the organization’s Youteam that daily walks up and Tube channel. down streets in high-risk, low-income neighborhoods. HEALTHY BABY During these foot patrols, NETWORK these employees walk into the "For parents raising children neighborhoods where help in high-risk, low-income is needed most, and educate neighborhoods, receiving the residents on the keys to a quality access to health care healthy pregnancy. Using its professionals — while still foot patrol, Deutsch says the available — is much harder to Healthy Baby Network has come by than their suburban achieved a 90 percent cuscounterparts," says Lauren tomer satisfaction rate with its Deutsch, Executive Director community outreach. Contact of the Healthy Baby Network. The organization strives to ofcontinued >>> fer these low-income families
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information is collected from everyone the outreach team interacts with, and referrals are made to assist these parents with finding the proper resources. Once a referral has been made and an appointment set up, someone from the organization follows up with the mother to make sure her needs were met and if the proper care was provided. Deutsch says many in the targeted population don’t have the same access to health care, so the employees work with area healthcare providers and doctors to make those resources available to all who are in need. “Our staff will approach these people in their neighborhood and ask them important questions such as: 'Are you pregnant? Do you have healthcare? Are you seeing a doctor to ensure the
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Our goal is to help all mothers optimize their pregnancy while having all of the available resources that lead to a healthy pregnancy." – Lauren Deutsch, Executive Director of the Healthy Baby Network
pregnancy is going smoothly? Do you need a car seat?'” says Deutsch, whose organization has seen its foot patrol presence grow from one to three people, with between 2,000 and 3,000 people being helped each year. “Our target population faces many challenges in its effort to receive proper health care. We provide pregnancy case management and home visita-
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tion. We have case managers who can check up on you if you miss an appointment. We aim to make it easier to have access to quality care, and our network helps provide access to these important resources.” Deutsch says the organization's website is a comprehensive directory of resources for new and expectant mothers. The organization also has a strong presence on Facebook (www. facebook.com/HealthyBabyNetworkRoc) and Twitter (@ HealthyBabyRoc) where mothers and fathers can turn to for advice in raising their children. Among the other resources available is MICHC, the Maternal and Infant Community Health Collaborative. The collaborative prepares community health workers for home visits with pregnant and parenting mothers. Through health edu-
cation topics ranging from contraception to C-sections and postpartum mental health, the collaborative strives to improve the health literacy of area mothers. “The health of the mother is a critical area to focus on if we are to make an impact on the life expectancy of our children in low-income neighborhoods,” Deutsch adds. “Twenty years ago no one was noticing that this segment of the population was not doing well when it came to healthy childbirth. We are trying to turn these mothers into informed consumers of health care.” Visit www.pnmc-hsr.org for more information on the available resources, or call (585) 546-4930 ext. 203 to reach the outreach team coordinator for the Healthy Baby Network.
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MARCH OF DIMES Founded by President Franklin Delano Our goal is Roosevelt in 1938 to reduce the United to find a cure for States rate of preterm birth Polio, anyone (from 11.4% to 5.5%) by born in the last 2030. Prematurity is the 76 years has number one killer in children benefited from this organizaunder the age of five. tion. Through – Claire Crean, division an aggressive director for the fundraising effort, Rochester branch of a vaccine was dismarch of dimes covered for Polio and the vaccination is now administered across ing a delivery,” Crean says. the country and world “Our goal is to reduce the to keep babies free of this United States rate of preterm deadly disease. birth (from 11.4 percent to Today, the March of 5.5 percent) by 2030. PremaDimes holds a babies walk turity is the number one killer to raise money for families in children under the age of with children in the NICU five. Premature birth costs our (Newborn Intensive Care country more than $26 billion Unit). Additionally, the local a year and takes a high toll on chapter holds a “Mothers to families. Babies born just a few Be” networking event where weeks early are at risk of severe local agencies and health health problems and lifelong care professionals can delivdisabilities.” er information on prenatal For more information on care, breast feeding, and the March of Dimes in New other important topics. The York, visit March of Dimes also recentwww.marchofdimes.org/newyork ly rolled out its “Healthy Baor call (585) 286-5864. bies are Worth the Wait”® campaign, a “nationwide John Boccacino is a coninitiative to prevent preterm tributing writer to Rochester birth by improving the & Genesee Valley Parent quality of care that women Magazine. receive during pregnancy,” says Claire Crean, division director for the Rochester branch. In 2015 alone, the local chapter collected nearly $63,000 for the University of Rochester-Highland Family Medicine’s inter-conception care program. There is also a pair of research grants at the University of Rochester (totaling $350,000) that will help future generations of babies experience healthy childbirth. “We’re helping pregnant woman and health professionals understand that if a pregnancy is healthy, it’s best to wait until at least 39 completed weeks of pregnancy before schedul-
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parenting
// By Sandra Gordon
surviving your first year as a stay at home mom C
ongratulations! You’ve taken the plunge into the zany SAHM (stay-at-home mom) pool. While expecting your baby, you may have envisioned days of doing exactly what you wanted to do while your baby snoozed away, but you have probably by now realized that your tiny, new — permanent — houseguest is running the show. Now what?
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I’ll never forget the time a family member asked me, “Are you bored yet?” Melissa Stanton, mother of three and author of The Stay-at-Home Survival Guide, says, “When a spouse comes home at the end of the work day, sees the breakfast dishes still in the sink, and asks, ‘What did you do all day?’ it can be hard to answer. All you know is that although you never sat down or stopped ‘doing,’ you didn’t accomplish anything of substance. Every nose wiped, snack served, doctor appointment made and errand run prevents a SAHM from being able to, say, balance the checkbook, write the great American novel or just relax and be the lady of leisure many perceive SAHMs to be.” Sure, you’ll have some spare time to work on long-neglected projects while Baby sleeps or plays… just not as much as you expected. After all, you’ll still need to handle about a million other things. “I definitely didn’t think I’d get behind on routine household tasks like closet cleaning. Instead, I hoped I’d be the proverbial housewife with the spar-
Books on Being a SAHM (like you have time to read!)
• Finding Your Way Home: How To Become A Successful Stay-At-Home Parent by Lucynda Koesters • Domestically Challenged: A Working Mom's Survival Guide to Becoming a Stay-at-Home Mom (2nd Edition) by Alana Morales • The Stay at Home Mom: For Women at Home and Those Who Want to Be by Donna Otto • In Praise of Stay-at-Home Moms by Laura Schlessinger • The Stay-at-Home Survival Guide: Field-Tested Strategies for Staying Smart, Sane, and Connected While Caring for Your Kids by Melissa Stanton
kling house since I was home all day. Instead, I could barely keep my head above water,” says Tresa Cope, the pregnant mom of two preschoolers. Deal with the crazy-busy dilemma by accepting any offers of help that come your way. I’ve been known to cry tears of joy when someone drops off a new-baby meal at my place. And while you’re entertaining well-wishers, sneak off every now and then to do a dish or put a load of laundry in the dryer while they’re marveling over your child. If a friend starts to empty your dishwasher, don’t stop her! “Because many of the tasks involved in motherhood and housekeeping are mundane, women can fall into the trap of being busy but bored," says Stanton. "Stay-at-home motherhood is a job, and no one in the paid workforce is on duty 24/7. To fight boredom, loneliness and frustration, SAHM women need to get out of the house, without kids in tow.” So stock the diaper bag and grab a fellow new mom for a stroller walk around the neighborhood or mall to fit in some exercise with your social time. Indoor gyms, play areas in fast food restaurants and community centers where
mommy groups meet to chat for “mommy playdates” are especially great for the winter months. Speaking of mommy groups, Julie Dorset, mom of one, says, “What I think is most important is to find a group or club you can join, whether it’s MOPS International or just maybe your own group of friends. I think any group is very important for the first year you stay home because it gives you somewhere to go, something to look forward to and other moms to relate to.” To find other moms to connect with either in person or online, Mothering.com is a popular website with thousands of members talking about a multitude of topics and issues important to moms. You can always find other moms who are parenting like you, and it’s nice to know you’re not alone while caring for this tiny bundle who can’t even speak yet. Just because you spend your days with a pint-size cutie all day doesn’t mean your brain has completely turned to mush. And if you just need to get it all out of your head, blogging has become a great way to connect with other moms while also using your brain during those late nights
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when you can’t sleep or during your baby’s naptime. Jill Smokler, author of the blog ScaryMommy. Stay-at-home com, says, “I did find motherhood is a job, and my blog to be a savno one in the paid workforce ior as far as keeping is on duty 24/7. To fight boreme connected to dom, loneliness and frustrapeople.” tion, SAHM women need to Nobody ever get out of the house, without said your baby kids in tow." had to entirely run the show. If you’re – Melissa Stanton, mother of three and author of normally an on-the-go The Stay-at-Home type of person, keep that Survival Guide up. You can incorporate your baby into your day in many different ways, such as exercising with him, taking yet feel bored — and frustrathim on errands with you while ed about not getting anything you play your favorite kind of done," says Stanton. If you’re music, or strapping him in a sick of trying to do it all and front pack or sling while you do seem to be getting nowhere, household tasks. my advice is to temporarily “The puzzle, for many surrender. I finally decided that SAHMs, is how we can have I would sit and hold my son so much to do, and be so busy,
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every time he fell asleep (and I’ve done it ever since with all my children!). Instead of Girls’ Night Out, recharging to me meant sitting around with my son while reading a book, watching TV, journaling or even taking a little snooze for myself. And don’t feel guilty about taking some time for yourself wherever you can grab it. This may mean running an errand alone, sitting in a coffee shop for an hour with a book, or going out on the town with friends. If you’re short on cash, trade babysitting with a friend so you can both get out of the house. Everyone wins – for free! This time of nonstop caring for an infant won’t last forever, so I’m giving you permission
to cut yourself some slack. Nobody is putting pressure on you to lose the baby weight immediately or have an immaculate house, so enjoy yourself!
Kerrie McLoughlin has been digging the SAHM gig with her 5 kids for 14 years. Visit her at TheKerrieShow.com.
parenting
// By Christa Melnyk Hines
A Letter to the Expectant Mama
9 true cliches about motherhood
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ear Mom-to-Be, Baby showers bring a host of instructions from seasoned moms and well-meaning friends. As a new mom, I grew weary of hearing input like "sleep when the baby sleeps." And, since I stubbornly refused to heed this sage advice, I suffered from sleep-deprivation-induced splitting headaches as a result. As part of our global sisterhood, moms can relate to certain universal truths about motherhood, even as all of this advice starts to sound cliched. Here are a few truths that not only help with life in general, but with parenthood in particular.
"This too shall pass." When you find yourself rocking a colicky baby at all hours, this comforting mantra is like a blinking light of hope beckoning you forward. In fact, I still whisper this oft-spoken phrase to myself in times of stress, and it hasn't let me down yet.
"I get by with a little help from my friends." Don't underestimate the value of a supportive network of mommy friends. Take it from me, connecting with other
moms offers a pressure release valve when you need to talk out your worries and frustrations, much to the relief of your frequently calledon pediatrician.
"The days are long, but the years are short." When steering through a tearful toddler tirade or slogging through sick days, you'll want for nothing more than the clock to skip ahead to a less exhausting time or place. When well-meaning individuals would tell me, "Enjoy these
days -- they go so fast," I wanted to give them a swift kick in the derriere. But I understand why they said it. Those long days are somehow swiftly becoming bittersweet memories.
"Mother knows best." Know your own heart and mind. I recall standing in line at the store with my two-week-old son who slept safe and sound in
his baby carrier. "What a tiny baby," said an elderly woman behind me. "How old is he?" When I told her, her voice hardened. "In my day I wouldn't have left the house until he was at least six-weeks-old." As a sensitive new mom, admonishments like this bothered me despite following doctor's recommendations.
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"Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get." You will gain a new respect and appreciation for individuality and the word "quirky." Many kids have curious interests. My son has loved cars since he was two. Not sexy sports cars, mind you. Cars like the 1988 Ford Taurus station wagon and the AMC Gremlin make his socks go up and down.
"Keep calm and carry on." Your ability to remain calm in a crisis may surprise you. I learned this about myself when my youngest was three. Across the room he chirped, "Look at me, Mommy!" I looked over to see him grinning while hanging upside down like a bat from the top of the oak mantle of our stone fireplace. "You need to get down," I said coolly to avoid any sudden movements
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on his part. I swiftly walked toward him and lifted him down. I still shudder, imagining his brains splattered across the rough-hewn gray stonework below.
"Being a mother is the world's hardest job." Emotionally-charged days with screaming kids may drive you to retreat behind closed doors, curl up in a fetal position and sob. You may tell yourself that mothering is too hard and you aren't getting any of it right. But surrender isn't an option. You'll pick yourself up, throw cold water on your face and get back out there. This is a good time to call an understanding friend for moral support.
"No guts, no glory." On especially exasperating days, you might fantasize about packing up and abandoning
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this motherhood mess you got yourself into. But you won't run away. Children have the distinctive talent of breaking and repairing your heart daily. You won't think twice about accepting their viselike hugs and sloppy kisses. You'll tuck sentimental notes away for safekeeping that sing your praises in childish scrawl, gussied up with stick people holding hands.
"Put on your own oxygen mask first." While pregnant with my son, my doctor and loved ones concerned themselves with how I was feeling. The minute my son arrived on the scene, he naturally became the center of our universe. I forgot how much I still needed to nourish my body and spirit if I was going to be an emotionally stable and healthy mother. Getting out the house, taking walks, joining a supportive moms group and returning to my interests reduced
my anxiety levels and helped me feel more content. As you prepare to dive into the thick of motherhood, you'll find these sayings will gently assimilate themselves neatly among life's forthcoming milestones, tragedies and triumphs. And sooner or later, you'll turn to congratulate a new mom and out will pop the words you swore you'd never say, "Enjoy these days. They go so fast." 
Freelance writer Christa Melnyk Hines is the mom of two boys. She is the author Confidently Connected: A Mom's Guide to a Satisfying Social Life, a resource for moms seeking asylum from isolation and an out-ofwhack social life.
parenting
// By Malia Jacobson
Rose-colored onesies
the problem with "pinkification" & the argument for free choice
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s soon as soon-to-be parents Marcy and Kyle Naismith discovered they were expecting twins — a boy and a girl — in 2012, their world turned pink and blue. A stream of gender-specific clothes, toys, and gifts started arriving, clearly intended for a baby girl or a baby boy. Though Marcy preferred more gender-neutral tones like red and orange, she couldn’t always fight the pastel–hued tide. After Tate and Lucy arrived, Marcy sometimes used color-coding to keep things like bottles straight. “We tried to steer clear of ‘boy’ and ‘girl’ things, but often, our options were pink and blue,” she recalls. In other words, some gender symbols were all but impossible to avoid. Society’s ideas about gender shape how even the tiniest babies are dressed, perceived, and treated. Even parents like Marcy and Kyle who want to avoid gender-themed toys and clothes find that pink and blue have a way of creeping in, along with frilly princess frocks and
ubiquitous sports motifs. So what’s the problem with the pink-blue paradigm? What’s the harm in letting grandparents buy the baby a tiara or the truck-themed bedroom set — do these choices really matter when the child in question is still in diapers?
The problem with pink Jo Paoletti, associate professor of American Studies at University of Maryland and author of Pink and Blue: Telling the Boys from the Girls in America, calls this phenomenon “pinkificiation.” And it matters, she says. Pinkificiation isn’t about pink — indeed, she notes that pink’s history as a feminine color in our culture is less than
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Reading list Pink and Blue: Telling the Boys from Girls in America by Jo Paoletti Gender Born, Gender Made: Raising Healthy Gender-Nonconforming Children by Diane Ehrensaft P.D. Raising My Rainbow: Adventures in Raising a Fabulous, Gender Creative Son by Lori Duron The Princess Problem: Guiding Our Girls through the Princess-Obsessed Years by Rebecca Hains Pink Brain, Blue Brain: How Small Differences Grow Into Troublesome Gaps -- And What We Can Do About It by Lise Elliot
100 years old — but about reinforcing a gender binary that validates only certain gender expressions and the people who embody them. Namely, those at either end of the gender spectrum: hyper-masculine macho men or ultra-feminine girly girls. Paoletti, who writes the Gender Mystique blog at pinkisforboys.org, notes that “pinkificiation” goes beyond the use of pink for girl’s things — it also narrows choices and exclude gender-neutral options. Kids’ clothes and toys are becoming increasingly gendered, and researchers at National Association for the Education of Young Children report that gendered toys are less educational than gender-neutral playthings. “Pinkification” also teaches and reinforces stereotypes and limits the way children perceive themselves and others, she says. And, perhaps most troubling, it excludes children who don’t fit society’s gender mold. Kids who fall outside the strict frills-or-football gender framework can feel left out in the cold, says Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D., director of mental health at
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the Child and Adolescent Gender Center in Oakland, California. The second of her two grown children was “a very gender-non-confirming” little boy, she says, with little interest in the trucks and other “boy” things she’d bought, while her daughter embraced dolls, pink, and all things girly. “I was committed to gender expansiveness for both my children, with a mixture of all types of toys for them to choose from,” says Ehrensaft, who authored Gender Born, Gender Made: Raising Healthy Gender-Nonconforming Children. “They took it from there.”
Free choice As babies grow into toddlers, they begin choosing their own clothes and toys, often along gender lines. A study by the British Psychological Society found that by nine months of age, babies already prefer gender-specific toys and colors, with girls gravitating toward dolls and stuffed animals and boys choosing balls and cars. Similar results have been seen in studies with monkeys, suggesting that preferences for so-called stereotypical playthings might
be innate. There’s nothing wrong with letting a little girl wear frills and ruffles if she I was wants to, says Ehrensaft. committed to gender The problem with the expansiveness for both my pink “princess culture” children, with a mixture of isn’t necessarily that all types of toys for them to it limits girls, she says. choose from." It’s that it excludes boys. The fact is, most – says Diane Ehrensaft, Ph.D., director of mental children love shiny, health at the Child sparkly things, Ehrenand Adolescent saft adds. Who wouldn’t? Gender Center Girls should have access to sparkles and frills if they want them, but boys should, too. Parents sometimes cut boys and lose focus of your child.” off from this type of self-exThere’s no way to tell pression out of the misguided whether a toddler boy who fear that their child will “turn skips Army figures in favor out” gay, says Ehrensaft. It's of baby dolls will be gay, says nonsense, she adds. “Gender Ehrensaft. “What you have is is gender and sex is sex. Think a gender-creative little boy. It’s of them as railroad tracks. not a sexual identity.” TryThey’re completely different tracks. Don’t make them be the ing to suppress a child’s early gender expressions is a losing same track. You’ll be confused battle. “Parents can suppress it
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but they can’t shake it,” notes Ehrensaft. And doing so can cause lasting psychological harm.
Parent power The anecdote to limiting gender stereotypes is parent power, says Paoletti. “Parents can insist on more choices for their kids.” For babies and toddlers, more choices mean a more expansive view of themselves and others. "The key is offering a spectrum of options, then standing back and respecting choices kids make," says Virginia Rutter, PhD senior scholar with Council on Contemporary Families. And understanding that you can only engineer your baby’s social world so much. “You can’t raise your child in a completely gender-neutral world. Some of those influences are going to
come in.” Marcy Naismith is OK with that. Despite having access to both “boy” and “girl” toys, her twins gravitate toward things associated with their own gender: Lucy loves hairstyles and her stuffed bunny, while Tate’s into trucks.“I want them to know that no matter what gender they are, they can do anything they put their minds to.”
Malia Jacobson is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three. Her latest book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.
From baby to teen, your essential family resources
Rocparent.com & rocbabyonline.com Rochester Baby Guide 2015-2016
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resources
area services & groups ¤
Adoption Resources
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Find even more resources ar RocParent.com. Notice anything missing from our directory? Submit a listing to
Office@gvparent.com
Adoption Resource Network at Hillside Children’s Center 100 Metro Park, Rochester 14623 350-2500 www.hillside.com/AdoptionMain Jewish Family Services of Rochester, Inc. 441 East Ave., Rochester 14607 461-0115 ext.120 www.jfsrochester.org/adoption.php
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Child Care Council, Inc. 595 Blossom Rd., Suite 120, Rochester 14610. 654-4720 | www.childcarecouncil.com
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Childbirth Education
Breastfeeding
Highland Hospital Lactation Consultant. 341-6808
Highland Hospital Center for Women 1000 South Ave., Rochester 14620 271-4636 473-2229 for Family Classes Highland Hospital Childbirth Classes . 473-2229 www.urmc.rochester.edu/hh/services-centers/maternity/childbirth-programs.cfm
Highland Hospital Mother’s Help Line. 341-8021 La Leche League Lifeline Call Lifeline at 275-5151 for referral to the local leader nearest you. Rochester General Lactation Consultant 922-LINK (-5465) www.rochestergeneral.org URMC Breastfeeding Hotline 275-9575 | (Noon-1 p.m. M-W-F) 275-0096 | Breastfeeding classes The Specialty Shop at Strong Memorial Hospital 601 Elmwood Av, Rochester 273-1276 | (10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. M-F)
www.RocBabyOnline.com
Child Care Resources
Birthright of Rochester 385-2100 or toll free at 800-550-4900 www.birthright.org Emergency pregnancy support services. Pregnancy tests, non-judgmental counseling, follow-up, material assistance, and referrals.
Highland Hospital Breast Pump Rentals. Operates in conjunction with Highland Hospital Lactation Education services. 341-0519 www.urmc.rochester.edu/hh/services-centers/ maternity
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Infertility Focus, Inc. P.O. Box 343, Pittsford 14534 385-1628 | www.infertilityfocus.org Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/ Syracuse Region 114 University Ave., Rochester 14605 866-600-6886 | www.pprsr.org A non-profit organization that provides education and reproductive health-care services regardless of age, race, sexual orientation, disability or economic circumstances.
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Rochester General Childbirth Education Program 1425 Portland Ave., Rochester 14621 922-5465 or 877-922-5465 www.rochestergeneralhospital.org Rochester General Hospital offers a modern Birthing Center, outstanding pediatric services and leading-edge, minimally invasive OB/GYN procedures. Strong Beginnings Education Program 601 Elmwood Ave., Rochester 14642 275-0096 http://www.stronghealth.com/services/womenshealth/maternity/strongbeginnings.cfm Strong Fertility Center 500 Red Creek Drive, Suite 220, Rochester 14623. 487-3378 | www.fertility.urmc.edu Strong Midwifery Group 905 Culver Rd., Rochester 14609 275-7892 | www.midwifery.urmc.edu
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Hospitals
Golisano Children’s Hospital 601 Elmwood Ave., Rochester 275-URMC (8762) www.golisano.urmc.edu A division of U of R Medical Center, Golisano Children’s Hospital at Strong Memorial Hospital is the area’s only children’s hospital and a referral center for seriously ill and injured children from the Finger Lakes region. Highland Hospital 1000 South Ave., Rochester 14620 473-2200 | www.highland.urmc.edu Exceptional healthcare specialist skill delivered with a warm, attentive, compassionate attitude. A family-centered hospital which considers every visitor (patient, family member or friend) a guest.
Rochester General Hospital 1425 Portland Ave., Rochester 14621 922-4000 | www.rochestergeneral.org Modern Birthing Center, outstanding pediatric services and leading-edge, minimally invasive OB/GYN procedures. Among Thomson Reuters List of Nation’s 100 Top Hospitals® for Cardiovascular Care.
Autism Speaks, Inc. www.autismspeaks.org Funding global biomedical research, raising awareness about autism and bringing hope to those dealing with related hardships.
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Crisis Nursery of Greater Rochester 201 Genesee Park Blvd., Rochester 14619 546-8280 crisisnursery75@gmail.org, www.cngr.org CNGR is a non-for-profit agency where children (birth to age 10) can stay when their families are in crisis. Services are free of charge and can be used in cases of illness, unemployment, housing problems, respite care, judicial problems, and for many other reasons. No referral is necessary.
Midwifery Care
Newark-Wayne Community Hospital 1212 Driving Park Ave.,Newark 14513 (315) 332-2022 www.rochestergeneral.org Dedicated to providing the best care possible (to people from Wayne County and beyond) in direct partnership with Rochester General hospital.
Strong Memorial Hospital 601 Elmwood Ave., Rochester 14642 275-2100 | www.strong.urmc.edu Strong Memorial Hospital, Highland Hospital and Golisano Children’s Hospital (w/other Strong Health care providers) are part of The U of R Medical Center – a leader in clinical care, research and education. Unity Hospital (formerly Park Ridge Hospital) 1555 Long Pond Rd., Rochester 14626 723-7000 | www.unityhealth.org Offering specialty services at Unity Hospital and at more than 50 other locations throughout Rochester and Monroe County (including Unity St. Mary’s Campus in Rochester, formerly St. Mary’s Hospital).
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DONA International (Doulas of North America) 888-788-DONA (3662), Toll Free www.dona.org Doula Cooperative 234-0164 | www.doulacooperative.org Strong Midwifery 905 Culver Rd.,Suite 2B, Rochester 14609 275-7892 | www.midwifery.urmc.edu
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Parenting support Groups & Services 2-1-1 Finger Lakes Region 2-1-1 or 1-877-356-9211 Toll Free www.211fingerlakes.org Available 24 hours a day. Run by local counselors trained to address your needs. Providing information and human service agency referrals. 292-BABY 292-2229 | www.292baby.org Free phone service connects parents w/ Non-Emergency questions about baby/ child health or development to pediatricnurses. Al Sigl Center 1000 Elmwood Ave., Suite 300 Rochester 14620 442-4100 | www.alsiglcenter.org Providing shared and dedicated facilities, business services, awareness and financial support for independent human service agencies.
Birthright of Rochester 320 N. Washington St., Suite 116, Rochester 14625 385-2100 1330 Buffalo Rd. Suite 201, Rochester, 14624 328-8700 or 800-550-4900 (Toll-free) www.birthright.org Other locationsavailable. Emergency pregnancy support services. Pregnancy tests, non-judgmental counseling, follow-up, material assistance & referrals.
Easter Seals N.Y. 103 White Spruce Blvd., Rochester 14623 292-5831 | www.ny.easterseals.com Provides assistance to children and adults with disabilities and other special needs to live, learn and work independently in their communities. Epilepsy Foundation of Rochester-Syracuse-Binghamton 1650 South Ave., Ste. 300, Rochester 14620 442-4430 or 800-724-7930 (Toll-free) www.epilepsyUNY.org Aiming to prevent, control & cure epilepsy through service, education, advocacy & research. Helping people with epilepsy & related disabilities reach their potential. Family Resource Centers of Crestwood 2nd floor in Bishop Kearney 89 Genesee St., Rochester 14611 436-0370 | www.hillside.com Flower City Down Syndrome Network 2117 Buffalo Rd. #132, Rochester 14624 56Tri-21 (568-7421) | www.fcdsn.com A group of individuals joined to provide support & education regarding issues relating to Down Syndrome to families & the community. Infertility Focus P.O Box 343, Pittsford 14534 385-1628 | www.infertilityfocus.org Offers support, education and information to individuals and couples at any stage of and with any type of infertility.
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Important Numbers Fire / Rescue Police ����������������������������� 911 Ambulance Poison Control (Finger Lakes Region) ����������� 275-3232 General Poison Control Line. ���������������� (800) 222-1222 State Police (Monroe County and outlying) ����������� 279-8890 Pediatrician:________________ Hospital:___________________ Babysitter: _________________
Other Numbers: ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________
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La Leche League Lifeline 275-5151 | www.lalecheleague.org Call Lifeline for your local chapter. Go to www.lllusa.org for area meeting times and other information. March of Dimes (Genesee Valley/Finger Lakes Division) 3445 Winton Pl., Ste. 121, Rochester 14623 424-3250 | www.marchofdimes.com Our mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Mental Health Association (Better Days Ahead) 320 Goodman St. N. Suite 202 Rochester 14607 325-3145 | www.mharochester.org Endorses creative thinking, focuses on family strengths, supports action which empowers. Information, referrals & support. Moms Offering Moms Support (MOMS) Clubs Various locations throughout Rochester 234-6667 www.momsclub.org/links.html MOMS offers support to stay-at-home moms and their children, as well as playgroups and other activities. Mommies for Miracles 5 Grey Fox Lane, Fairport 14450 507-5367 http://mommiesformiracles.org This non-for-profit raises funds to purchase gifts for sick or disabled children in need of specailized services. Mothers & More Rochester www.MothersandMoreRochester.org Extended neighborhood of women which meets twice monthly to share concerns, friendship, acceptance & fun. Mothers of Twins Club www.grmotc.com Open to any mother of multiple birth children, including those expecting multiples. Offering discussion groups to support mothers. Noogieland (at Gilda’s Club Rochester) 255 Alexander St., Rochester 14607 423-9700 | www.gildasclubrochester.org Noogieland is a unique arts & activities based program that meets the needs of children who have cancer or a loved one who is living with cancer. Parents Without Partners P.O. Box 204, Fairport 14450 251-3647 | pwproc683@yahoo.com Support, friendship, an exchange of parenting techniques and growth opportunities await single parents and their children.
Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/ Syracuse Region 114 University Ave. Rochester 14605 866-600-6886 | www.pprsr.org A non-profit organization that provides education and reproductive healthcare services regardless of age, race, sexual orientation, disability, or economic circumstances. Regional Early Childhood Direction Center Monroe #1 BOCES 41 O’Connor Rd., Fairport 14450 249-7817 | www.monroe.edu/recdc Supporting families with children birth to 5 years by providing free information and individualized assistance to connect them with programs and services. Rochester Area Birth Network 425-7105 | www.rabn.org The purpose of Rochester Area Birth Network is to advocate for health, safety and informed options in childbearing. Rochester Holistic Moms & Holistic Moms West www.holisticmoms.org Local chapter of a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting mothers with an interest in natural health and mindful parenting. Rochester Society for the Protection and Care of Children 148 South Fitzhugh St., Rochester 14608 325-6101 | www.spcc-roch.org Provides various programs supporting children and strengthening families. Ronald McDonald House of Rochester, Inc. 333 Westmoreland Dr. , Rochester 14620 442-5437 | www.ronaldshouse.com Providing a home-away-from-home for families while their child receives healthcare in Rochester area hospitals. Also awards community grants. Stepfamily Assoc. of Rochester 442-3440 | www.stepfamilyrochester.org A non-profit organization offering education, support and counseling on the challenges involved in blending families and nurturing stepchildren. United Cerebral Palsy Association 3399 Winton Rd. S., Rochester 14623 334-6000 | www.cprochester.org Advancing the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities.
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