Indy's Baby Magazine 2019

BROUGHT TO YOU BY Indy’s Child

inside:

out

& about with baby Tot-friendly spots around Indy

PREGNANCY

myths vs. reality SEPARATING FACT FROM FICTION

+ DELIVERY ROOM

DOs and DON'Ts

Veteran dads offer their advice

2019/2020

Personalize, organize and treasure your favorite moments. words by | Trisha Brand

The days are long, but the years are short. That’s what ran through

Indianapolis local Carrie Griffith’s mind when she developed the concept for a new app in the summer of 2015—during her first child’s nap time. Her app, named Little Nugget, is designed to help parents catalog and edit photos of their children—including tools to easily jazz them up with art and messages. Perfect for commemorating milestones and special occasions, Little Nugget was featured as an Apple “App of the Day” in March 2019 and has over 1.3 million moments shared through the platform.

Little Nugget’s mission is to help parents document the fleeting moments of parenthood so your children can treasure a childhood well-lived.

From pregnancy bumps, newborn milestones, and toddler experiences—the good and bad, messy and “instaworthy,” expressions and experiences—you’ll treasure these moments, and Little Nugget wants to help busy moms.

Your favorite photos are personalized to remember, organized to simplify, and treasured for always. Available for download on the App Store and coming soon to Google Play.

contents W H AT T O F I N D I N S I DE

DEPARTMENTS

24

08

Indy’s Kids

09

On the Cover

10

Tiny Tidbits

12

Local Baby Finds

PREGNANCY 14

Beautiful Bumps

16

Pregnancy Myths vs. Reality

BIRTH 20

It’s in the Bag

22

Delivery Room Do’s and Don’ts

24

More Than the Baby Blues

26

BABY

18

Daycare, Relative or Nanny: Which is Right for You?

26

Baby Milestones

30

Out & About with Baby

TODDLER 28

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28

Tips for a Stress-free First Birthday Party

staff PUBLISHER

Mary Wynne Cox mary@indyschild.com

MANAGING EDITOR Karen Ring karen@indyschild.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@indyschild.com

DIGITAL PUBLISHER Wendy Hasser wendy@indyschild.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Trisha Brand trisha@indyschild.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Katie Clark katie@indyschild.com

BILLING

billing@indyschild.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Trisha Brand, Tessa Judge, Shannon Loehr

CALENDAR OF EVENTS calendar@indyschild.com

CONTACT US

indyschild@indyschild.com

COPYRIGHT

Indy’s Baby Magazine is published annually. Copyright 2019 by Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary, or services herein. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more, visit indyschild.com.

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indy’s kids

We asked our readers to send in shots of their little ones enjoying their favorite spot in Indy, and the response was overwhelming!

Here are just a few of the adorable photos we ​received.

Scout, 3 years

The Shoppes at 56th and Illinois Street

Max, 3 years

Westermeier Commons Playground

Aiya, 2 years

Wyliepalooza in Irvington

CaLía, 4 years

Holliday Park Nature Center

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Lincoln, 1 year Indy’s Baby 2019/20

Windisch Park, Bargersville

ON THE COVER

Maddie 8 months old

FAVORITE COLOR: Green FAVORITE FOOD: Bananas FAVORITE BOOK: Spot Goes to School FAVORITE SONG: Baby Shark FAVORITE GAME: Patty Cake FAVORITE ACTIVITY: Dancing and listening to music!

INTERESTING FACT:

I am a Daddy’s girl!

PHOTOGRAPHER

Hannah Hilliard Photography hannahhilliard.com

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tiny WEIRD but true: A NEWBORN’S STOMACH IS THE SIZE OF A WALNUT. NO WONDER THEY EAT SO OFTEN.

5,400 That’s how many hours on average a baby will sleep in the first year of life.

Hopefully, a few of those hours will be at night.

A BABY’S EYES ARE 75 PERCENT OF THE SIZE OF THEIR ADULT EYES. BABIES DOUBLE THEIR BIRTH WEIGHT IN THE FIRST FIVE MONTHS. *Sources: mom365.com, factretriever.com/ baby-facts

#TRENDING Bandana bibs Finally there is a baby bib that is both fashion forward and functional. Bandana bibs by makers like Matimati Baby and Copper Pearl are super absorbent and available in a variety of trendy designs. *Photo Credit: CopperPearl.com

Nature-inspired nurseries Think driftwood accents, natural fibers and rattan furniture. These natural elements work well the vibrant coral hue, Living Coral, Pantone’s 2019 Color of the Year.

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Indy’s Baby 2019/20

Royal names A number of parents today are taking their cues from across the pond when it comes to choosing a baby name. James, Albert, Victoria and Diana are among those gaining in popularity.

local

BABY FINDS

Whether you are looking for that special something for your own bundle of joy or are in search of a unique gift idea, check out these fun local finds.

MUSLIN BURP CLOTHS Organic cotton muslin burp cloths from Three Little Anchors come in your pick of IU or Purdue print.

Roman & Leo, Fishers. $19/2-pack

KITTEN & ACORN: RACE CAR ONESIE Show your love of our hometown with this adorable race-themed onesie. nurture boutique, Mass Ave. $24

CRAYON STIX These chunky crayons are perfect for toddler hands. art2theextreme.etsy.com. $19.95

NIGHT-NIGHT INDIANA Bid goodnight to stops around the state, including the Indianapolis Zoo, Holiday World, Mass Ave. Toys and the Indianapolis Colts. nurture boutique, Mass Ave. $9.99

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TAYLOR JACOBY – 21 WEEKS

JENNA ROTH – 12 WEEKS

How are you feeling this month?

Pretty good – finally getting my energy back!

I’m craving: Fruit and chocolate

How are you feeling this month?

Excited!

I’m craving: Pickles! But that’s a pretty normal craving. :)

beautiful

ASHLEY DUNCAN – 36 WEEKS

How are you feeling this month?

Tired, excited and anxious I’m craving: Everything!

Especially Buffalo Wild Wings mild sauce

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HEATHER GREEN – 33 WEEKS How are you feeling this month?

Very tired and very hungry.

I’m craving: Pizza

GENEVIEVE MEADOWS – 22 WEEKS How are you feeling this month?

Feeling great – even for number 6!

I’m craving: Hummus and chocolate

bumps

KAYLA HEAVILAND – 24 WEEKS How are you feeling this month?

Excited and tired I’m craving: Onion rings

CHELSEA SHERRILL – 25 WEEKS

SOFIA HERNANDEZ – 30 WEEKS

How are you feeling this month?

Feeling healthy, just tired chasing a toddler…

I’m craving: Sleep and salad

How are you feeling this month?

Nervous and happy!

I’m craving: Chocolate

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words by | Nicole Sipe

PREGNANCY

myths vs. reality

Can you sort the facts from the fiction?

There is a lot of information floating around about what pregnant women should and shouldn’t eat and do. To help us figure it all out, we asked Erin Neu, an OB nurse navigator with Franciscan St. Francis Health, to lend her expertise on the matter.

MYTH: Skip sushi while you’re pregnant.

REALITY: Raw fish and meat should be avoided, because pregnant women are more susceptible to food-borne illnesses, according to the American Pregnancy Association. But don’t cut out fish altogether. “One to two servings of cooked fish per week is safe and good for you and the baby,” Neu says. Look for fish that contain lower levels of mercury, such as salmon and tilapia.

MYTH: Don’t eat soft-serve ice cream or fro-yo if you’re preggo.

REALITY: There are no restrictions to pregnant women for eating soft-serve treats on the Center for Disease Control website. However, you’ll want to make sure that the dairy-based treat is made with pasteurized milk and has been stored in a hygienic manner. It isn’t always possible to check for both unless you quiz the store proprietor, so some women just skip soft serve while pregnant.

MYTH: No amount of coffee is safe to drink when you’re pregnant.

REALITY: “One 8-ounce serving of caffeine a day is generally safe

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while pregnant and breastfeeding,” Neu says.

Although caffeine is a stimulant and a diuretic — it increases your blood pressure and heart rate, and can dehydrate you — experts have found that moderate levels of caffeine have not been found to have a negative effect on pregnancy, according to the American Pregnancy Association.

MYTH: You shouldn’t clean a cat’s litter box while pregnant.

REALITY: According to the Humane Society, pregnant women can transmit toxoplasmosis, a rare parasitic disease, to their unborn baby, which can lead to miscarriage or birth defects. Toxoplasmosis can be transmitted via contact with cat feces, which is why Neu recommends avoiding the chore altogether. “If you must change the litter box, wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly when finished,” she says.

MYTH: It’s totally safe to dye your hair while pregnant.

REALITY: There are no studies that prove that coloring your hair during pregnancy is completely safe. But if you’re really itching to touch up your roots, experts recommend waiting until after the first trimester to help ensure the safety of the developing baby. Even then, you might have trouble finding someone to do your ‘do. “Some stylists won’t color your hair while pregnant,” Neu says.

MYTH: Exercise can harm your unborn baby.

REALITY: Don’t cancel that gym membership just yet. “If you had a regular exercise routine prior to becoming pregnant, then it’s safe to continue with physician approval,” Neu says. “Exercise and pregnancy are good together!”

MYTH: Sleeping on your left side is best when you’re pregnant.

MYTH: Pregnant women shouldn’t wear stiletto heels.

REALITY: A pregnant mama should sleep in whatever direction is most comfortable and lets her get the most sleep. However, sleeping on your left does relieve some of the pressure on the vena cava, which controls blood flow to the heart, especially later in pregnancy. In turn, this provides better blood flow to the growing baby, Neu says.

REALITY: Neu says that high heels should probably be avoided because of the risk of falling.

Plus, Neu adds, do you really want to wear shoes that are that uncomfortable while you’re pregnant?

“High heels aren’t even comfortable when you’re not pregnant!” she jokes.

MYTH: Painting is a no-no when you’re pregnant.

REALITY: The nursery might need a lot of work before the baby comes, but this is one of those jobs that you should delegate to someone else. “Painting should be avoided, especially in areas that are not well ventilated,” Neu says. “I would also advise against expectant moms climbing ladders or reaching for that super high spot!”

MYTH: Avoid hot tubs when you’re pregnant.

REALITY: “Hot tubs can quickly raise your body temperature, which in turn may raise your blood pressure and make you feel light headed or dizzy, which may cause a fall,” Neu says. However, pools and warm baths are fine and encouraged!

As always, defer to your doctor if you have specific questions or concerns.

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Daycare, Relative or Nanny:

Which is Right for You? Finding the right childcare can feel daunting because there are so many options. Take this mini quiz to find out which type of childcare might work for you and your child.

1. How much are you willing to spend on childcare? a. A little more than I’d like if I find the right place. b. As little as possible.

I’m on a very strict budget! c. Whatever it takes to find the best care for my child.

2. What is your typical workday like? a. My work schedule is fairly consistent. I tend to work 9-to-5. b. My schedule is flexible. I am able to set my own hours. c. Typical workday – what is that? My hours vary and often involve travel.

3. How important is it for your child to socialize with other kids during the day?

4. Which sentence most describes what you are looking for in childcare?

a. Very! My child

thrives on social interaction.

a. I’m happy if the caregiver is trained and has a background in early childhood education.

b. My child does better in one-on-one situations. c. It would be great, but it’s not super important.

b. I’m happy if the caregiver keeps my child safe, enter- tained and fed. c. I’m happy if the caregiver can focus all her attention on my child.

MOSTLY As: Daycare

MOSTLY Bs: Relative

MOSTLY Cs: Nanny

A licensed daycare center is regulated by state standards and staffed with trained caregivers.

Daycare can be less expensive than hiring a nanny, but it is typically much more expensive than having a relative watch your child. This setting provides children with many opportunities to socialize, but set drop-off and pick-up times can make it hard to work around an unpredictable work schedule.

A relative is the least expensive (and sometimes free!) option.

A relative is likely to have more personal interest in your child, and your child might feel more comfortable in the familiar setting of a relative’s house. The downside is that it’s difficult to establish any sort of professional relationship with a relative, and you are at the whim of your relative’s values and childcare philosophies.

A nanny is great when you want the childcare to come to you and work with your schedule. Like a relative, a nanny provides more personalized attention for your child in a familiar, comfortable setting. This kind of care can be expensive, though, and often requires extensive paperwork. You might also be left scrambling for childcare if your nanny becomes ill or goes on vacation.

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it’s in the bag THE INSIDE SCOOP ON HOSPITAL BAG ESSENTIALS With all the planning prior to baby, what to pack in your hospital bag shouldn’t be a source of stress. To get a little insight from the women who have been there before, we turned to our loyal Facebook followers and asked: “What are the essential hospital bag must-haves?”

Aromatherapy (essential oils like eucalyptus) was a key for me to relax.

And don’t forget lip moisturizer.

– Nike A.

A sleep mask for mommy and daddy. An extra long charger cord for the phone/iPad. –

Angela S.

Cozy socks! – Katie N.

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Baby Be Mine Maternity Labor Delivery Nursing Robe. It has pockets! – Alissa W.

Fingernail file for baby. Since they are asleep a lot those first few days, it's the easiest time to get their nails taken care of before going home. – Stormie C.

Halo SleepSack. Straight out of the womb, my little guy was a Houdini when it came to regular swaddles. – Tracy G.

Snacks! – Courtney V. Tennis shoes! I had to walk for over 5 hours to jumpstart labor after my water broke... in flip flops. – Shannon S.

A maxi dress. Super useful for breastfeeding, getting dressed, bathroom, etc.

– Katie B.

My pillows! If you plan to nurse, it's nice to have great pillows!

– Bichette G.

Movies!!! Some hospitals have DVD players, watched a bunch!

– Robin T.

Sandals. After one of my C-sections I was so swollen I couldn’t get my feet in my tennis shoes. – Laura M.

DELIVERY ROOM DO’s AND DON’Ts

HELPFUL ADVICE FROM DADS WHO HAVE BEEN THERE BEFORE While mom takes center stage in the delivery room, dad also plays an important supporting role when it comes to bringing baby into the world. We asked a few veteran dads to share their advice for the big day.

Here’s what they said:

Be careful not to show your disgust at what you see.

Everyone knows childbirth ain’t pretty. But your face doesn’t need to show it. And for God’s sake, don’t tell her if she poops.

—Adam Brand

Bring snacks and comfortable shoes because you spend A LOT of time standing next to the delivery bed.

1. Just Go with It. I was really hoping for a 1950s delivery, where I stayed in the waiting room passing out cigars … but that ain’t going to happen these days!

Just accept the fact that you’ll be there – and you really should be.

2. Stay with your Wife. Our first child was delivered via last-minute C-section. The doctors and nurses kept asking me if I wanted to come over and see the baby up-close. The baby was in great hands, so there was no reason for me to move. I stayed with my wife, holding her hand. I needed to be there with her at that moment.

3. Take It All In. Witnessing a new life starting the moment it enters the world is pretty amazing. You’ll never see anything like it. Hopefully, you’ll see a strength in your wife that you didn’t know she had and have a better appreciation of the amazing job she has been doing for the past nine months. I know I did.

— Roger Sipe

– Jordan Mohler

Forget your birth plan and all the waiting everyone warns you about. We had always heard that our first birth experience would be a long one, but it was quite the opposite for us... our daughter’s birth was just under 5 hours and the last hour was as QUICK as lightning. We were prepared for a lot of waiting around and hours and hours of labor, but not a panicked ride to the hospital, nor a darting wheelchair rush from triage to the delivery room.

Just be ready for anything and constantly remind her how fantastic she is!

– Eric Clark

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1. Don’t talk unless it’s supportive. Dad jokes are off the table this day.

2. Acting squeamish is a no no. Try and be nothing but positive. Last thing your wife wants to hear out of you are the words “gross,” “yuck,” or “eww.”

3. You don’t eat until she does (or at least don’t let her see it). Strong smells like that onion-laced sandwich you just consumed aren’t the best smells your wife wants to inhale when pushing your son or daughter into the world.

– James Hasser

words by | Shannon Loehr

more than

the Baby Blues Understanding the signs, symptoms and treatment for postpartum depression

The first few months of motherhood involve fluctuating hormones, sleep deprivation and a newfound responsibility for the life of a tiny human – all of which can wreak havoc on emotions. Having the baby blues is perfectly normal; however, if symptoms persist or become steadily worse, postpartum depression (PPD) may be at play. We reached out to Shannon Loehr LCSW, a psychotherapist with Northside Mental Health, to learn more about the signs, symptoms and treatment of PPD.

What is the difference between postpartum depression (PPD) and the “baby blues?”

The baby blues can include feeling down, irritable and tearful as though you just aren’t yourself. These symptoms are “normal” but can feel overwhelming.

Often caused by hormonal fluctuations, the baby blues will typically only last for a few weeks after giving birth. Once a new mom is able to rest more, eat well and accept some help from others, these symptoms generally will lessen over time.

Postpartum depression can be gradual and occur any time within the first year. It often peaks between three to six months after giving birth. The symptoms of PPD are debilitating and can interfere with daily functioning.

What are the symptoms of postpartum depression?

Some of the symptoms of PPD include: • Feeling despair and hopelessness about the future • Feeling very alone • Feeling empty, numb or nothing at all • Feeling excessive nervousness or anxiety much of the time • Unable to experience pleasure • Not wanting to be around others • Feeling irritable and cranky much of the time • Sleeping too much, too little • Having strange thoughts, feeling paranoid • Feeling jealous of baby • Having suicidal thoughts

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Are there warning signs that a loved one should be aware of?

It can be difficult to identify these symptoms in new moms because they often internalize these feelings because of guilt and shame related to the adjustment to motherhood. Loved ones can pay attention to how the new mom is dealing with small, everyday events. Those suffering from PPD might respond to these small hassles with exaggerated responses resulting in angry outbursts or a rush of tears. They have a hard time handling small events that before would not have been a problem. If a new mom is exhibiting behavior that is very different to how they were prior to baby, a loved one should begin a gentle conversation targeting their concerns.

Are some women more predisposed to PPD than others?

There are risk factors that can lead to PPD. These include: • Depression or anxiety in self or family • Previous history of PPD or mood disorders in self or family • Eating disorder • Poor sleep cycles • Traumatic or disappointing childbirth experience • Perfectionistic personality • History of physical or sexual abuse • Relationship challenges with partner • Baby with high needs

the better. The two main options for treatment include medication and psychotherapy. It can only take a few visits to a prescribing professional to establish the correct medication and dosage necessary to feel better. Some ways to access medication would include contacting: • The OB/GYN that delivered baby • The primary care physician • The local hospital and asking if they have a perinatal mood disorder program.

Psychotherapy can be helpful in identifying emotional and physical supports. It can also help combat negative thoughts often associated with depressive symptoms. This is typically just for a few months until the new mom is feeling better and more functional.

Shannon Loehr, LCSW is a psychotherapist and Gottman trained educator in the Transition to Parenthood curriculum. She is in practice at Northside Mental Health and can be contacted at Shannon@northsidementalhealth.com.

However, PPD can occur without any of these factors at all. It can helpful to conduct a selfassessment prior to giving birth to determine if risks factors are present. Then, a new mom and/or loved one can put this on their radar and pay close attention to emerging symptoms.

What help is available?

If you have concerns about yourself or a loved one, reach out for professional help. It can take up to six weeks to experience some relief from symptoms so the sooner the treatment can start

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words by | Nicole Sipe

baby

MILESTONES

Here’s what your baby will be learning to do during the first year During the first weeks, a baby does very little besides eating, sleeping, crying and pooping. But as the weeks go by, you’ll see them learn new skills as they discover the world around them. Developmental milestones are things that most children do at a certain age. How a child plays, learns, speaks and acts can tell you a lot about how they are developing.

EVERY CHILD IS DIFFERENT When it comes to meeting developmental milestones, remember that every child is different and will master skills in their own time. “Milestone timeframes are meant to give parents a general idea of when their baby should gain new skills,” says Sarah Johnson, a clinical physical therapist at Riley Children’s Health. “Each child is different and will develop at his or her own rate. There are a variety of factors that can affect development that are not necessarily ‘red flags.’”

It’s also normal for skills to ebb and flow. “It is normal for skills to emerge and then have a slight regression, only to appear again later,” Johnson says.

In general, however, you want to see your child making progress over time. “Milestones should follow a general progression,” Johnson says, “because skills build on each other.”

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MEMORABLE MILESTONES Here are some of the fun milestones that your baby will be busy mastering during the first year. For even more milestones, and suggestions for helping your baby’s development, visit the Center for Disease Control’s Milestone page at cdc.gov/ncbddd/ actearly/milestones/index.html.

2 months

• Begins to smile • Tries to look at you • Starts to recognize people at a distance

Encourage your baby’s development at 2 months by: • Cuddling, talking and playing with your baby during feeding, dressing and bathing • Acting excited and smiling when your baby makes sounds

4 months

• Copies some movements and facial expressions • Babbles with expression • Responds to affection Encourage your baby’s development at 4 months by: • Setting steady sleeping and feeding routines • Having quiet play times when you read or sing to your baby

6 months

1 year

• Likes to look in the mirror • Makes sounds to show joy and displeasure • Begins to pass things from one hand to another

• Responds to simple requests • Will wave bye-bye • Tries to say words that you say

Encourage your baby’s development at 6 months by: • Playing on the floor with your baby every day • Pointing out new things to your baby and naming them

Encourage your baby’s development at 1 year by: • Reading with your child every day • Giving your child lots of hugs, kisses and praise for good behavior

9 months

• Prefers some toys over others • Plays peek-a-boo • Uses fingers to point at things Encourage your baby’s development at 9 months by: • Talking about what your baby wants when they point to something • Providing safe spaces so your baby can move around and explore

Milestone Matters If you have questions about your child’s development, Riley Children’s Health pediatrician Dr. Thomas Lock suggests reaching out to your child’s doctor.

“If you are concerned, first ask your primary care physician or pediatrician,” Lock says. “You can also contact First Steps. This organization will do an evaluation for free.” For more information about First Steps, visit in.gov/fssa/4655.htm.

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words by | Tessa Judge

tips for a stress-free

FIRST

birthday party Throw a memorable birthday bash without sweating the small stuff Pick the perfect location

If you’re up to the task, hosting a party in your own home is always a great option. Buy some colorful balloons, designate a safe play area that can accommodate your guests, throw on a kid-friendly playlist and you’re ready to go.

If the thought of throwing (ahem, cleaning up after) a party does not spark joy, there are plenty of other options. Weather permitting, local parks and splash pads are always a hit. Indy is also home to a number of venues that specialize in children’s parties and will provide you, your baby and your guests a great time (see Birthday Venue Options for Kids).

Plan the menu

Your little bundle of joy is turning one! This calls for celebration.

Put your party hat on and follow our quick guide for planning and enjoying your little one’s first birthday party, stress free.

Narrow down the guest list

If you’ve ever planned a party, you know how quickly a guest list can get out of control. Make this part easy on yourself and just invite your VIPs. This will not only keep food, beverage and party favor costs down, but a more intimate party will also be less overwhelming for your little one.

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If you’re planning the party during lunch or dinner hours, you should serve your guests a meal, but don’t stress yourself out with anything complicated. A sandwich platter and salad should do the trick. If the party is in the morning or mid-afternoon, simple snacks, cake and ice cream will suffice. And as far as cake goes, well… get ready for a delicious mess. Bibs all around!

Be sure to inform your guests ahead of time about what kind of food will be available so that everyone’s on the same page.

Above all else, remember that your friends and family are excited to gather and celebrate your little one with you, so don’t sweat the small stuff.

Have your camera handy and get ready for lots of laughs and happy memories.

BIRTHDAY VENUE OPTIONS FOR KIDS GYMBOREE PLAY & MUSIC With two locations in Greenwood and Carmel, Gymboree specializes in parties for 1st through 5th birthdays. gymboreeclasses.com

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS The museum’s brightly colored party room, complete with throne chair and tickets to ride the carousel, guarantees a special celebration. childrensmuseum.org

GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL Pack a swimsuit and head to Goldfish locations in Carmel and Fishers for a swim-filled celebration. goldfishswimschool.com

RHYTHM! DISCOVERY CENTER Nothing says party like a room full of toddlers and percussion instruments! rhythmdiscoverycenter.org

THE URBAN CHALKBOARD This adorable play café offers both private and semi-private party options perfect for the youngest partygoers. theurbanchalkboard.com

THE MUSIC PLAYHOUSE Parents and kiddos alike can enjoy singing, dancing and playing instruments together. themusicclass.com Indy’s Baby

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words by | Nicole Sipe

OUT & ABOUT with baby

Get out of the house with your tot and enjoy these baby-friendly spots There is a big, wide world outside your home for your baby to discover. When you’re both ready to fly the coop in search of some fun, here are a few places where you and your baby will have a good time.

Enjoy pint-sized play at PLAYSCAPE AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

Located on Level 3 of the museum, Playscape was created especially for the 5 and under set. But even better, there is a special area just for babies, so you can let your little one roll around, crawl and explore new sights and sounds in a safe space designed just for them. Playscape also offers amenities like private nursing areas, family restrooms and diaper-changing stations.

3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis childrensmuseum.org

Drink a latte while your baby plays at THE URBAN CHALKBOARD

Part café, part play area, The Urban Chalkboard offers intentionally designed, open-ended play spaces for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. The play café offers a special space just for babies and non-walkers, complete with soft padding all around and age-appropriate toys.

452 E. Carmel Dr., Carmel theurbanchalkboard.com

Create, build and explore at DISCOVERY STATION AT CONNER PRAIRIE

This indoor area of Conner Prairie is where kids ages 9 and under can create, explore, play and pretend.

Babies have their own area where they can crawl and explore, too. Discovery Station is open year-round, even when the outdoor spaces of Conner Prairie are closed for the season.

13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers connerprairie.org

Meet up with your parent pals and their tots at LITTLE VILLAGE PLAYROOM

Located on the Carmel/Indy border, this play space encourages exploration around the bright, open room filled with toys and imaginative play spaces that are perfect for babies and toddlers. Tables and chairs bank one side of the play room, which is a perfect area to rest, watch your child play and enjoy some free coffee.

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9850 N. Michigan Rd., Carmel thelittlevillageplayroom.com

Take a class at GYMBOREE

Gymboree offers parent/ child classes and activities that encourage sensory development for children ages 0 to 6 months, as well as all the way up to preschool ages. Classes for babies include tummy-time exercises, songs and opportunities to socialize.

Multiple locations gymboreeclasses.com

Read stories and sing songs at BABY STORYTIME AT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY

Your neighborhood library is a great place to take your baby for free fun. Many libraries offer programming for babies and lap-sitters that involve reading books, singing songs and rhymes, and doing fingerplays. Best of all, with so many libraries around Indy and the surrounding cities, you’re sure to find a baby storytime that fits your schedule.

Splish splash during FAMILY SWIM TIME

Introduce your baby to water in a fun and relaxing way during a family swim time at your local pool. Many YMCA locations and neighborhood community centers have indoor and outdoor pool areas, and times set aside for families and young kids to play in the water. Many swim schools also offer special hours dedicated to family swim — some are included with swim lesson membership, and some are pay-as-you-go.

YMCA of Greater Indianapolis: indymca.org Monon Community Center: carmelclayparks.com/monon-community-center Goldfish Swim School: goldfishswimschool.com

Indianapolis: indypl.org Carmel: carmel.lib.in.us Avon-Washington Township: avonlibrary.net

Make music at KINDERMUSIK’S FOUNDATIONS CLASSES

These music classes are geared toward babies ages 0 to 18 months, and offer young tots an environment to explore and react to new sounds, sensations and objects in a gentle and caring atmosphere.

Multiple locations kindermusik.com

Meet other mamas at MOTHER CONNECTION SUPPORT GROUP AT IU HEALTH NORTH HOSPITAL

Known around Indy as a cheerleader and mentor to new moms, Cindy Love (childbirth educator and pediatric nurse practitioner) oversees two support groups: one for new moms with infants, the other for women with toddlers. These casual, free weekly meetings are a time for moms to connect with other moms, listen to guest speakers and feel supported.

Cindy Love brings the toys and snacks, so moms can relax, nurse their babies and learn from each other.

11700 N. Meridian St., Carmel iuhealth.org/classes-events/mother-connectionsupport-group Indy’s Baby

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