Indy's Baby October 2023

inside:

baby’s day out

Tot-friendly spots to visit with your little one

BROUGHT TO YOU BY Indy’s Child

15

PRENATAL, POSTNATAL + INFANT-CARE CLASSES in Indy

2023/2024

all smiles: THE FIRST DENTIST VISIT

staff

PUBLISHER

Mary Wynne Cox mary@indyschild.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@indyschild.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Becca Reynolds becca@indyschild.com

DIGITAL PUBLISHER

Wendy Hasser wendy@indyschild.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Katie Clark katie@indyschild.com

BILLING billing@indyschild.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lindsay Conner, Rachael Dupree

CALENDAR OF EVENTS calendar@indyschild.com

CONTACT US indyschild@indyschild.com

COPYRIGHT

Indy’s Baby Magazine is published annually. Copyright 2023 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

Babies truly are miracles in tiny packages. My babies are now in elementary and middle school, so I’ve had some time to step back, take a breath, and gain perspective about the babyhood season. That season, of course, came with lots of diaper-changing and breastfeeding, and my world revolved around nap times. But it was also an adventure like no other, filled with countless moments of joy and wonder. What a privilege it is to raise a baby, and an even bigger privilege to see them grow up.

Within the pages of Indy’s Baby, you’ll find a trove of articles that celebrate this babyhood season. From prenatal and baby care classes to baby’s first trip to the dentist, we’ve got you covered. We also offer advice for finding childcare that works for your family, as well as practical self-care tips to avoid burnout.

Now that they’re older, my children are down for anything, and they love exploring and trying new things. I credit that to taking them to lots of places when they were babies. We visited parks

and playgrounds, zoos and museums, libraries and activity centers — and everywhere in between. If you’re looking for some ideas for places to explore in Indianapolis with your baby, turn to “Baby’s Big Adventure” on page 21. Indy is such a family-friendly place, and we feature just a fraction of what’s available around town. Looking for even more ideas? Visit our huge calendar of events at indyschild.com for even more places to visit with your baby!

We hope you find Indy’s Baby a valuable resource during this season of your life. Here’s to all of the giggles, snuggles and unforgettable memories with your baby!

Mom of two boys

ON THE COVER

Willa, 6 months old

MY FAVORITES

ACTIVITY: Baby ninja class

FOOD: Mashed potatoes

BOOK: Sea Tales (crinkle book)

SUPER HERO: My big sister!

TOY: Anything I can chew on!

ANIMAL: My dog, named Indy

INTERESTING FACT ABOUT ME

I am named after my great-great-grandmother, Wilhelmina, whose parents were immigrants from the Netherlands in the 1800s.

PHOTOGRAPHER

GC Photography

gcphotography.com

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.

Wrenley, 9 months at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Dutcher, 23 months at Conner Prairie

Chance, 16 months in

Betty, 3 months in Grammy’s backyard

Grandpa’s driveway

Brenna, 18 months Fishers

Lydia, 23 months at Holliday Park

Asher, 18 months at Finch Creek Park

Ivy, 23 months at Geist Park

Kynlee, age 2 at Beasley’s Orchard

Mia, age 1 at Fort Harrison State Park

Hazel, 9 months at Hancock County Public Library

3.66 million

That’s the average number of babies born in the United States each year.

#TRENDING

WEIRD but true:

A baby is born on its predicted due date only 4% of the time.

Babies can taste sweet and sour flavors when they’re born, but can’t taste bitterness or saltiness until 3 to 4 months.

A newborn baby has 300 bones in their body, while a full-grown adult has 206.

Newborns cry a lot, but they don’t produce tears. It can take up to 12 weeks for their tear ducts to develop completely.

Babies are natural music lovers. They stay calm twice as long when listening to a song as they do when listening to regular speech.

BE THE CORNIEST BABY ON THE BLOCK

Treat your little Hoosier to a Corn Rattle Toy by Oli&Carol, a Barcelona-based toy company founded by two young entrepreneurs. Each rattle is made with 100% natural rubber, with upcycled cherry seeds inside that make a satisfying sound.

Find this and more locally at Lunch Money Boutique, 5617 N Illinois St, Indianapolis | lunchmoneyboutique.com

SNACK WITH STYLE

The Silicone Fruit Feeding Pacifier by Konges Slojd features small holes that allow only tiny bits of food to pass through, helping baby to learn to eat independently while minimizing choking. The ergonomic handles are easy for little hands to grasp, and the whole thing can be cleaned in the dishwasher.

Find this and more locally at Hey Little Diddle, 736 Hanover Place, Carmel | heylittlediddle.com

PRENATAL & baby care classes IN INDY

The labor and birth process can make even the most organized person feel overwhelmed. Luckily, there are many resources around Indianapolis to help put your mind and body at ease as you prepare for the birth of your baby. Here are just some of the class offerings you’ll find at local hospitals to ease your journey into parenthood!

BIRTHING CLASSES

BIRTH & BABY

This class is geared toward first-time parents. It provides education about the birth process, the hospital experience and newborn care.

Location: Community Hospital North, Community Hospital South, Virtual

VIRTUAL CHILDBIRTH 101

This class, presented by Franciscan Health’s experienced childbirth educators, will inform you and your support

person about what to expect during labor and birth, comfort measures, caring for yourself after birth and more.

Location: Online, presented by Franciscan Health

LAMAZE SERIES

The goal of Lamaze is to increase women’s confidence in their ability to give birth. Women and their support persons will learn simple coping strategies for labor, including focused breathing, movement and positioning, labor support, massage and relaxation.

Location: IU Health North Hospital, IU Health West Hospital, Virtual

NATURAL LABOR DISCUSSION

This class discusses choices in the hospital setting to avoid medical intervention when possible. The instructor offers tips to use in pregnancy to encourage less medical intervention in labor.

Location: Community Health Network Virtual

CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION

The workshop consists of handson practice, demonstrations, displays and plenty of time for Q&A on topics, including healthy birth practices, labor support, comfort measures and more.

Location: Hancock Regional Hospital

CHILDBIRTH REFRESHER

This virtual class is to help you learn how you will experience pregnancy, birth and postpartum differently this time. Laboring techniques and changes in maternity care are discussed.

Location: Community Health Network Virtual

BREASTFEEDING CLASSES

VIRTUAL BREASTFEEDING 101

Gain the knowledge and skills for breastfeeding to get off to a good start and to meet your long-term breastfeeding goals.

Location: Online, presented by Franciscan Health

BREASTFEEDING BASICS

In this virtual class, a lactation consultant will share tips to prepare expectant parents for breastfeeding. We recommend taking this class in the third trimester. Dads and partners are encouraged to attend!

Location: Community Health Network Virtual

BREASTFEEDING 101

Learn practical information about positioning and latch-on, common concerns and questions related to breastfeeding. Attend this class with your partner. All classes are taught by certified lactation counselors, consultants or RNs. This class will meet virtually.

Location: IU Health North Hospital Virtual

BREASTFEEDING 201

Based on class members’ needs, topics may include breast pumps and supplies, milk storage and pumping, baby and mother transition and timing, working with your employer and daycare provider, and best tips for success. Class is taught by a certified lactation nurse consultant.

Location: IU Health North Hospital Virtual

POSTPARTUM & PARENTING CLASSES NEWBORN BASICS

This class will give you the opportunity to learn about caring for a new baby in the first month of life. Baby care

topics such as bathing, holding, feeding and comforting the crying baby and more are taught. This class will meet virtually — anyone near or far is welcome to join.

Location: IU Health North Hospital, Riley Maternity Tower, Virtual

INFANT CPR

This class focuses on the lifesaving skills of infant CPR resuscitation and infant choking relief.

Location: Franciscan Education Center, Greenwood

FAMILY & FRIENDS CPR

This class teaches lifesaving skills of adult CPR with breaths, adult and child AED use, infant CPR, and how to help adults, children and infants who are choking.

Location: Community Hospital North

THE FOURTH TRIMESTER: UNDERSTANDING YOUR BODY AFTER PREGNANCY AND BIRTH

Learn the process that occurs in the “4th trimester” and set yourself up for a successful postpartum recovery by recognizing early signs of common postpartum issues and knowing where to find local support, learn about pelvic floor health, how to exercise without causing injury, simplifying your life techniques and more.

Location: IU Health North Hospital Virtual

CAR SEAT SAFETY FOR EXPECTANT PARENTS

This class will provide information about safe car seat use and installation, the importance of using car seats, and how to select the best car seat for your family.

Location: Riley Maternity Tower, Virtual

SELF-CARE TIPS for new parents

You need to nurture yourself so you can nurture your baby.

As a new parent, it’s easy to find yourself short on internal resources. Surviving on a few hours of sleep and a lot of caffeine just doesn’t cut it when you have a helpless infant depending on you for their every need. While adjusting to life with a baby, it’s important to make sure you’re taking care of yourself, as well.

Self care as a new parent is critical to making sure you can show up for your family without feeling run ragged, and it can look different for every person. You might hear people try to tell you what self care is or isn’t, but the truth is only you can define what self care is for you. One way to think about it is: If it helps you feel more whole, more filled up and more

like your true self, then it’s self care and a great thing to incorporate into your life.

Think of self care in terms of a hierarchy. At the bottom tier, you have your physical needs: wholesome food, adequate exercise, good sleep and basic hygiene. Next, your mental and emotional needs: time to connect with your partner, family and friends, and time for reflection and emotional processing. Finally, there’s what you can think of as bonus care: occasional treats that give you an energy boost, such as a spa day or a night out. While those bonus self-care days are really great, they’re not all that effective at keeping your energy levels sustainable if you don’t meet your physical, mental and emotional needs first.

Although you need to create a self-care routine that works for you, here are some ideas to consider that might help improve your life during those first months of new parenthood.

shower daily

New parents are notorious for forgetting personal hygiene. But taking a shower is a great way to reset your body and mind — even if you can’t manage to take one until the late afternoon. Even if the baby won’t stop crying, lay them in a safe place, and allow yourself

five to 10 minutes in the shower. They will be OK, and you will be able to come back to them with renewed energy.

take a walk with your partner

Exercise and fresh air are both great ways to refresh the body and spirit as a new parent, and time to connect with your partner is important, as well. Get a good dose of all three by taking a walk together. It can be a short walk around the block or a longer one around a park. If you have someone you can leave the baby with during that time, that’s great, but if not, take them with you.

connect with other parents

It can often feel like no one understands what you’re going through as a new parent, but in fact, every parent out there is in the same boat. If you can find a new-parent group in your area, spending time with others who have babies the same age as you do can be incredibly therapeutic. You can share common frustrations, offer one another advice, and support one another during those tough first years of parenthood.

find a mindfulness practice

As a new parent, you can easily find yourself pulled in so many directions that you start to forget who you are. Finding a mindfulness practice, whether you favor meditation, prayer, yoga or something else, allows you to center yourself and find grounding. Make time for this every day, even if it’s just a few minutes.

line up therapy

If you find yourself with severe mental health symptoms during the postpartum period, don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist. Postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety and other postpartum mental health issues can affect both mothers and fathers, and there is no shame in reaching out for help. In fact, it might be a good idea to have a mental health plan lined up prior to your baby’s birth in case you need that life line.

Time might be tight with a new baby in the house or on the way, but by prioritizing your own self care, you’ll be able to make quality time with your new little one more special.

SELF-CARE IDEAS FOR MOMS

The demands of family life can leave little time for self-care. But sneaking in some rejuvenating activities throughout your day is possible. Try one or some of these the next time you need to nurture yourself.

Go for a walk

Read a new (or old) book

Do some gentle yoga

Call or text a friend or family member

Savor a good cup of coffee

Bake a delicious treat

Memorize an uplifting poem or affirmation

Get crafty

Color in a coloring book

Take a bath

Write in a journal

Paint your nails

Listen to a podcast

Visit the library

Watch a movie

Go window shopping

Drive with no destination

Spend time in nature

Get gardening

TRIP to the Dentist

Your child’s life will be filled with firsts: first steps, first words, and, of course, the first trip to the dentist. Below are a few tips to establish your child’s dental home.

WHEN TO GO

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends the first dental visit within 6 months after the first tooth erupts or no later than the child’s first birthday. While this may seem early, it is actually the perfect time to acclimate your toddler to regular dental visits and get advice on eruption patterns, tooth cleaning, pacifiers, fluoride and prevention of tooth injuries for young walkers.

HOW TO CHOOSE A DENTIST

While a parent’s first instinct may be to take their child to their own dentist, it is worth weighing the benefits of choosing a pediatric dentist. While general dentists are qualified to work with patients of all ages, pediatric dentists are required to obtain additional training that focuses on the specific dental needs of growing children.

WHAT TO EXPECT

A child’s first visit to the dentist is relatively quick and easy, with the majority of the time spent educating the parent on a variety of children’s oral health topics, including brushing techniques for toddlers and infants, proper use of fluoride, oral habits (i.e. pacifiers and thumb sucking), ways to prevent accidents that could damage the face and teeth, teething and milestones of development, and dietary habits that may be putting your child at risk for cavities.

HOW TO GET STARTED ON THE RIGHT FOOT

Remember, your child has no preconceived notion of what to expect at the dentist and will be taking cues from you. It is therefore important to keep

your own emotions in check. Parents can introduce their child to the concept of the dentist using one of the many children’s books and educational YouTube videos themed around the first trip to the dentist.

Even with preparation, it is age-appropriate for young children to wiggle, fuss, cry and whine at their first visit. Rest assured, pediatric dentists and their staff are trained and equipped to handle these responses and make the best out of each visit.

When it comes to dental health, prevention is key. Establishing a dental home by your child’s first birthday will set the stage for a healthy smile and a lifetime of good oral hygiene.

TOP CHILDCARE OPTIONS

Finding the best childcare for your little one is a big decision.

There’s nothing like the peace of mind you gain when you know you can trust your childcare provider — knowing that your child is safe, healthy and thriving. Still, finding quality care for your baby or toddler is not a task to be taken lightly! When carefully balancing factors like overall cost, convenience and availability, it can be difficult to choose between the available options. But with a little research, you can find the childcare option that’s best for your family.

GROUP DAY CARE

For their cost, open hours and reputation, a day care center is often a great option for working parents. For parents with a commute, day care centers often have the most flexible hours for early drop-off or late pick-up. With a reliable schedule, other perks of a group day care are that kids get to socialize with others their age under the care of trained childcare workers. Most centers won’t care for a child who is ill, though, and parents must adhere to the center’s drop-off/pick-up schedule even if work runs late.

PRO TIP: It’s never too early to get on the waiting list for a good group day care center. Those that accept infants are in high demand, so start looking when you’re in your second trimester.

IN-HOME DAY CARE

With a reputation for nurturing atmospheres, in-home day care can be the right option for some families. The price can be cheaper than some day care centers, with fewer children overall (and thus less exposure to illness). One caveat is that an in-home provider might need to call in sick if they are ill or their own family has an emergency, or they might close the center during vacations, so you may need to consider your backup options.

PRO TIP: To find a spot at a good in-home day care, start looking at least two months before you plan to return to work. Ask if you can stop by sometime with your little one for a meet and greet.

NANNY

The most convenient infant childcare option is to have a nanny care for your child in your own home. With plenty of personalized attention, children are in their familiar surroundings and parents don’t have to worry about drop-off or pick-up. But this convenience comes with a cost — perhaps the heftiest of all childcare options. With a few children at home, though, it may make financial sense. Some friends can even go in together and share a nanny for multiple kids.

Hiring an au pair (a nanny from another country) might save you some money each week versus hiring a nanny, because you are also expected to provide them room and board. The U.S. State Department oversees the J-1 au pair program (j1visa. state.gov/programs/au-pair). If you are considering an au pair, it’s best to work with a licensed agency that understands the U.S. requirements and adheres to strict standards.

RELATIVE

If relatives live in town, an inexpensive childcare option is to ask a grandparent or other family member to pitch in. If you can trust your in-town relative and benefit from a shorter commute, this option can work for some families. As an added benefit, a grandparent or other relative can benefit from the companionship of being with their grandchild. For families who enter this arrangement, communication is key to avoid sticky situations or hurt feelings if the arrangement doesn’t work out. This could be full-time or parttime, with or without pay.

PRO TIP: Ask your relative to watch your baby while you are still on maternity leave, to help you work out any kinks in the new arrangement.

Still not settled on your options? Ask other parents for ideas! You’ll be surprised at how eager they are to share their childcare experiences — good and bad. Ask other parents at the playground, talk to your child’s doctor, or ask for referrals in local parenting groups online.

baby’s BIG ADVENTURE

Ready to head out into the world with your little one? Here are some places around Indy to explore with your baby!

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

BABY AND TODDLER PROGRAMS AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis

Every day at The Children’s Museum, families can participate in programs developed specifically for children ages 0 to 5. Babies and toddlers will enjoy these quick programs held within Playscape. The programs are first-come, first-serve, and included with general admission. Programs include Experiencing Art Together, Making Music Together and Sharing Stories Together.

CARTER’S PLAY PLACE

1021 Kendall Ct., Westfield

A truly inclusive play place for children of all abilities, Carter’s offers specialized play equipment in their indoor play area, as well as occupational therapy services for all ages. There are areas designated especially for babies, as well as equipment like trampolines and zip lines that older siblings can play on.

INDIANAPOLIS

PUBLIC LIBRARY

Multiple locations

The Indianapolis Public Library offers lots of free workshops and storytimes for children of all ages. Programs such as The Wiggle & Bounce Family Time with Kindermusik and the Tales ‘n Play Storytime are created especially for children ages 0 to 5 years. They also offer animal meet-and-greets and animal shows with Silly Safaris, family sing-alongs and more. Check out the program schedule online at indypl.org.

CONNER PRAIRIE

DISCOVERY STATION AT

13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers

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.

Tot-friendly places to visit when you want to go out and about with your baby.

INDIANAPOLIS ZOO

1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis

A trip to the Indianapolis Zoo can be a magical experience for even the youngest baby. Babies will see and hear the animals from their storybooks come to life on a trip to the zoo.

PLAYSCAPE AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF INDIANAPOLIS

3000 N. Meridian St., 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.

STROLLERFRIENDLY WALKING PATHS

Every baby loves a stroll around the neighborhood, but sometimes a change of scenery is good for everyone. Here are four of our favorite stroller-friendly paths around Indy.

COXHALL GARDENS, Carmel

This beautifully manicured garden in Hamilton County has lots of things to see from the stroller, including ducks in the pond and outdoor statues. Bonus: There’s a Children’s Garden in the park with a small playground and play houses.

THE MONON TRAIL, multiple locations around Indianapolis

This popular paved trail is perfect for strollers. There’s lots to explore with babies on this trail, as it’s the only trail in Central Indiana that goes from downtown Indy to Sheridan.

INDIANAPOLIS CULTURAL TRAIL, downtown Indianapolis

This eight-mile urban bike and pedestrian path in downtown Indy connects six cultural districts: Mass Ave, Fountain Square, The Canal & White River State Park, Indiana

Avenue, the Wholesale District and Market East.

NICKEL PLATE TRAIL, Fishers

This Hamilton County trail connects Indy, Fishers and Noblesville, and offers interesting stops along the way.

PARENT-CHILD CLASSES

Attending a weekly parent-child class with your baby is a great way to bond with your child while learning something new. Parentchild classes are also a great place for parents to meet other parents in similar stages of life.

GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL

It’s never too early to introduce your child to the water! Swim lessons are a great way for parents to bond with their children while teaching them all about water safety. Parentchild classes start at 4 months. goldfishswimschool.com

GYMBOREE PLAY AND MUSIC

Gymboree classes are designed for early childhood development. Through play, your child is challenged physically, socially and cognitively, building crucial skills to support a lifetime of learning. Parent-child classes start as early as 0 months. gymboreeclasses.com

KINDERMUSIK

Children thrive on music! It’s one of the best vehicles to help young children learn. Kindermusik takes musical learning to the next level. Classes are offered in multiple locations around Indy. kindermusik.com

1.

2.

3.

4.