KC Baby magazine Summer 2020

baby

&

SINCE 2002

maternity

JULY- SEPTEMBER 2020 | KCPARENT.COM

TOP TIPS FOR CHOOSING AN

OB/GYN LOCAL GIFTS FOR MOM AND BABY

C-Sections

WHAT NURSES WANT YOU TO KNOW

5 THINGS I’D TELL MY NEW MOM SELF

toddler transitions

Safe beginnings We know the safety of you and your child is your biggest concern when having a baby. It’s ours, too. At AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, we exceed strict national standards for the health of moms and babies. And by caring for 5,000 families each year, our experience ensuring the safest delivery possible is clear. We’re here to do everything in our power to empower you on your journey to parenthood.

AdventHealthKC.com/BirthCenter AdventHealth Shawnee Mission earned Advanced Certification in Perinatal Care Certification by The Joint Commission.

Birth Center

DEN

T I S T R Y FO R C H I L D R E N

kcparent.com july-september 2020

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baby&

maternity

the choose your

doctor i ssue

JULY- SEPTEMBER 2020

IN EVERY ISSUE 7

Craft Corner

Labor & Delivery Guide 16

5 THINGS TO KNOW WHEN CHOOSING YOUR OB/GYN, PG. 8

Calendar of Events 32 Belly Laughs 34

YOUR PREGNANCY 8 Choosing an OB/GYN

YOUR BABY 10 Sleep Through the Night

YOUR TODDLER 7 Footprint Art

12 Things to Know About C-Sections

24 New Moms’ Health

30 Transition to Toddler Bed

14 Dealing with Sleep Disruptions

28 Big Moments in the First Year

32 Playdates

16 Labor & Delivery Guide

31 Babyproofing 101

34 Belly Laughs

19 Tips to Make Labor Easier 20 Things to Tell New Mom Self 22 Gifts for the New Mom 26 What You Learn in Childbirth Class

Our cover features Carter from Overland Park.

Photo by Melissa Rieke Photography.

MelissaRiekePhotography.com

baby&

SINCE 2002

maternity

JULY- SEPTEMBER 2020 | KCPARENT.COM

ON THE COVER Top Tips for Choosing an OB/GYN What Nurses Want You to Know About C-Sections Things to Tell New Mom Self Local Gifts for Mom and Baby Toddler Transitions

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8 12 20 28 30

TOP TIPS FOR CHOOSING AN

OB/GYN LOCAL GIFTS FOR MOM AND BABY

C-Sections

WHAT NURSES WANT YOU TO KNOW

5 THINGS I’D TELL MY NEW MOM SELF

toddler transitions

DARE TO DREAM BIG WITH US!

Sat., Sept. 26 Create a team with your friends and family! Register for a fun-filled day with live and virtual activities at DreamBigDay.org.

baby&

editor’sletter

maternity

I

VIRTUAL HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE! Check out the interactive Virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com to find videos, photos, social media and more.

KCParent.com

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kcparent.com july-september 2020

’ve mentioned in this space before that my second pregnancy was more difficult than my first. From morning sickness to her being breach, my second kept me on my toes! In addition, I also suffered from terrible insomnia during the second trimester. I could fall asleep but would wake after a couple of hours and couldn’t get back to sleep. With an active toddler to look after, I needed to be awake and alert during the day. At one prenatal appointment, I hit my breaking point. Through tears, I told my doctor, “You have GOT to do something!”

He suggested I try taking Tylenol PM before bed and that, thankfully, did the trick. I was able to get some much-needed rest! If you, like I did, suffer from pregnancy insomnia, please check with your doctor on what he or she recommends. Just because mine prescribed Tylenol PM does not mean yours would recommend that you take an overthe-counter sleep aid. Local mom Kerrie McLoughlin discusses insomnia and other pregnancy sleep issues on pg. 14.

On the last page of every issue, we have a “Belly Laughs” feature where we ask our Facebook fans a question and then share some of their answers. This time we asked, “When you were pregnant, what nickname did you give your little one before he or she had an official name? And why?” While pregnant with my first, we called her “Lil’ El” because if she had been a boy, my husband wanted to name her Elvis. If you don’t already, be sure to follow us on Facebook so you can not only participate in upcoming “Belly Laughs” questions, but you can also enter giveaways, find out about local attractions and so much more!

Happy summer, Kansas City!

Margaret Sarver, Editor

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Debbie Clark Debbie@KCParent.com Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com

LOCAL Local Contributing Writers CONTENT Kim Antisdel, Liberty Emily Cline, Lenexa Judy Goppert, Lee’s Summit Lauren Greenlee, Olathe Christa Melnyk Hines, Olathe Gina Klein, Kansas City Kristina Light, Kansas City Regan Lyons, St. Joseph Sarah Lyons, Olathe Kerrie McLoughlin, Peculiar Emily Morrison, Independence Janelle Cumro-Sultzer, Overland Park Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax

Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Pinterest.com/KCParent @KCParent

Member of

KC Baby & Maternity is published four times per year: Winter (JanMarch), Spring (April-June), Summer (July-Sept) and Fall (Oct-Dec).

It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. KC Baby & Maternity is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. All photography and letters sent to KC Baby & Maternity will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of KC Baby & Maternity.

CRAFTCORNER

Materials Needed: • White paper • Non-toxic pink, black

n

“one in a melon” footprint art eed a fun and easy art project for the summer? Turn this little craft into a card or use it as a cute way to keep track of baby’s footprint!

and green paints • Black marker • Paintbrush • Paint bowl • Baby’s foot • Baby’s finger • Baby wipes/cloth

Step one: Have Baby sit in highchair or have a partner hold Baby.

Step two: Paint bottom of Baby’s foot pink and stamp footprint onto center of white paper. Clean Baby’s foot.

Step three: Once pink paint has dried, use Baby’s finger to make watermelon seed-prints with black paint. Clean Baby’s finger.

Step four: Paint green of watermelon around bottom of footprint.

Step five: Let all paint dry.

Step six: With black marker write “You are one in a melon” around painting. Add the date and year, if wanted.

Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Overland Park with her husband, son and two dogs. Janelle is a former health care executive director and is a mediator in Kansas, helping families in conflict. She loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.

DIY Yarn Wrapped Mobile

No Mess Painting

Night Light Makeover

For TONS more great craft projects, log onto KCParent.com! kcparent.com july-september 2020

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five things YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CHOOSING AN

obstetrician CONGRATULATIONS! YOU’RE PREGNANT!

OF ALL THE DECISIONS YOU MAKE THROUGHOUT PREGNANCY, CHOOSING AN OBSTETRICIAN IS AMONG THE MOST IMPORTANT.

L

ong before you start picking out a name, planning a nursery theme or setting up a baby registry, you have an important initial decision to make: choosing a health care professional to partner with you throughout your pregnancy and delivery. Bringing a

child into the world is no small task, so it’s to your benefit to find a doctor and hospital system that are a good fit for both you and your baby. Here are five things to consider when choosing an obstetrician.

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kcparent.com july-september 2020

1

Check your insurance coverage.

Oftentimes, pregnant women are encouraged to first ask friends and family for recommendations on where they delivered and which doctors they love. But there’s nothing more disappointing than finding a doctor with stellar reviews only to discover he (or the hospital he practices at) is not in-network with your insurance coverage. By staying in-network, patients can expect to receive quality care at a lower price; likewise, going out-of-network comes at a cost. So, first things first! Brush up on your benefit policies and ask your insurance company about any of the coverage that doesn’t make sense. By understanding what is covered and what’s not, you’ll not only limit the field of doctors and hospitals to consider, but you’ll also be able to determine how much you’ll have to pay out of pocket.

2

Take your health history into account.

Generally, staying in-network is preferred but there are a few exceptions.

For instance, if you have a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, or have had high-risk or complicated pregnancies in the past, it might be in your best interest to seek a higher level of care than your insurance provides. If you find yourself in this boat, don’t rule out working with your insurance provider to consider an exception. After all, insurance companies may be convinced that authorizing an out-of-network provider is in everyone’s best interest because a healthy mom and baby ultimately equate to lower costs to the insurance company.

3

Choose where you want to have your baby.

When it comes to real estate, it’s all about location, location, location. When it comes to having a baby, location is also a factor to consider. How far are you willing to drive for prenatal appointments? Would

you prefer to have Baby at a freestanding birth center, at home or at a hospital with a high level neonatal intensive care unit? If a hospital birth is for you, consider substance over style. Many hospital birthing centers now offer swanky delivery suites and spalike services like massages and pedicures.

Don’t choose a hospital exclusively on staged photos and elective amenities. After all, with a healthy vaginal birth, you’ll only be admitted for a couple of days and with a c-section, only one or two more. What you will want to know are things like:

• •

What level NICU is on site?

•

What postnatal and lactation support is provided after delivery?

What kind of prenatal education classes are offered?

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Start doing your OB/GYN homework.

You know what your insurance covers, you’ve factored in any potential unique health care concerns for you and your baby and you know where you want to deliver your baby.

Phew! Now it’s time to start finding the health care professional that’s right for you.

Look at the list of practicing physicians on site and compare them to those who are in-network with your insurance. Online patient reviews can be helpful, but many prefer personal recommendations from family, friends and coworkers at this point.

This is also a great time to ask your family practice doctor and gynecologist for their recommendations, as well. The process of finding “the one” can feel a bit like signing up for a dating service but, silly as it may seem, it’s important that you treat it with the same amount of respect and care. Consider what your deal breakers are, such as gender, track record or off-hours accessibility. And don’t forget to use your online super-sleuthing skills to whittle down the hunt, checking each obstetrician’s website for a list of credentials, philosophy and approach to care, as well as testimonials. Doctor review sites such as Vitals, Health Grades and Share Care can give you a good sense of what a doctor’s bedside manner is before meeting in person.

During your initial consultation, follow the counsel of Dr. Jill Sampson, Northland Women’s Health Care, who says communication is important and women should look for an OB/GYN they are comfortable talking to on a wide range of topics. Sampson highlights the importance of discussing the doctor’s experience with different conditions and procedures, along with how he or she manages pain during delivery.

Although you have no guarantees on what labor and delivery will bring, asking a doctor about his approach can give you a better sense of what he would do in any given situation.

5

Go with your gut.

You’ve done your homework, you’ve asked around. Now, follow your gut on the final decision. The partnership between doctor and patient is an important one, relying heavily on trust and mutual respect. Do you feel comfortable asking questions? Do you feel truly heard? If you do, congratulations! However, if something feels off early on, have a candid conversation with your doctor. If it’s obvious you can’t work through your differences, it may be in your best interest to find someone else. If this is the case, make the change sooner rather than later. Many doctors do not accept new patients who are in their final trimester.

Of all the decisions you make throughout pregnancy, choosing an obstetrician is among the most important. Be selective when finding the right one so that when the time comes, you can rest assured you and your baby are in the most capable hands.

Lauren Greenlee is a freelance writer and a mom of three from Olathe who had labor and delivery experiences that were as unique and varied as the children that came with them: one traditional birthing experience at a local hospital system, one home birth with a certified nurse midwife team and one natural delivery at a freestanding birthing center.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com july-september 2020

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BABY SLEEPS

h g u o r h T e Night: tAhJOURNEY

7:30 p.m. – Final bottle. New diaper. Rock the baby. Sing to the baby.

7:45 p.m. – Baby drifts off to sleep. Put Baby in fresh jammies and lay him in the crib. Breathe in your baby’s delicious smell. Stand over crib and stare at your beautiful angel for just a few minutes more.

8:15 p.m. – Settle down with a glass of wine and a good book. True crime thriller. This is gonna be good.

8:16 p.m. – Fall asleep.

8:42 p.m. – Wake up from dog barking. Still on page 1 of book. Vow to start reading it tomorrow.

9:15 p.m. – Put on pajamas and settle down in bed. Double check monitor. Baby hasn’t moved. Pat yourself on back. You’re doing so good!

9:23 p.m. – Tiptoe into Baby’s room and carefully glance over the crib.

Baby squirms. He’s ok. Thumbs up!

9:36 p.m. – Lie awake and wonder … did you actually see the baby squirm? Or did you just think you did? Better check.

9:42 p.m. – Tiptoe back into Baby’s room and hold finger under Baby’s nose to check for breath. All is well. Return to bed.

10:15 p.m. – Sit up. Check monitor to make sure it’s showing a live picture. HOW IS HE STILL SLEEPING? Vow to check on him in 20 minutes.

1:18 a.m. – Wake up. Check monitor. Whoa, what is happening?

Still asleep? Is that possible? Too tired to overthink it—drift off to sleep.

1:50 a.m. – Go to Baby’s room, not even tiptoeing this time. Make a little extra noise, in fact. Baby is asleep.

F

rom the moment your baby is born, the world is upside down.

Nighttime, daytime, lunchtime— they’re all just random numbers on a clock. Arguably, one of the biggest new baby hurdles is bedtime. Every parent eagerly awaits the moment Baby closes his eyes for bed and doesn’t make a peep until the next morning. It may seem like a far-off prospect, like an uninterrupted shower, but it will happen. When it finally does, prepare for it to go a little something like this schedule to the right.

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1:52 a.m. – Get back in bed bewildered. Google “when will baby sleep through the night?” Go down rabbit hole of stories—tragic and happy—that ultimately end with your donating to at least three Go Fund Me accounts.

1:58 a.m. – Attempt to sleep. Think good thoughts. Think warm thoughts. This is what you’ve been begging for. To get good, restful, glorious sleep. So just do it already!

2:07 a.m. – Calculate how many minutes of sleep you’ll get if you fall asleep right this second.

2:17 a.m. – Sign up for a 5K. You’re totally starting training tomorrow.

2:25 a.m. – Check monitor. Okay, he’s sleeping like a champ! Is this a new thing? Is it going to last? Surely not. There’s no way it can. It can’t be real. He’s going to wake up any moment.

5:35 a.m. – Sit straight up in bed. It is FIVE THIRTY-FIVE. He is still asleep!

5:40 a.m. – Get cup of coffee. Hear Baby cooing through the monitor.

6:00 a.m. – Pick up a happy baby. Start your day knowing everything changes from here.

Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for KC. She lives in Liberty with her husband, stepdaughters and toddler son.

kcparent.com july-september 2020

11

WHAT NURSES

really want you to know ABOUT C-SECTIONS

N

early one-third of babies arrive by cesarean section.* While a c-section may not be part of your birth plan, knowing what to expect should you need one can alleviate some of the anxiety around the surgery.

Why c-sections happen. Physicians deliver babies by c-section when the surgery is in the best interest of a mom and her baby’s health.

Your doctor may recommend the surgery if you’ve had a past c-section and aren’t a viable candidate for vaginal birth after c-section (VBAC). A c-section might also be performed if your baby is in a breech position. According to the American Pregnancy Association, a baby in breech position delivers buttocks or feet first as opposed to head first, which can limit oxygen and blood flow to your baby during delivery.

An emergency c-section may be ordered if “labor is failing to progress despite induction or augmentation methods,” says Missy Mourek, RN, BSN, labor and delivery/ postpartum Birth Place educator, Olathe Health.

Planning your stay. Hospitals provide all new moms with most everything they need, including hospital gowns, postpartum pads, underwear and abdominal binders (if prescribed). Feel free to bring your own nursing gown, tank tops or pajama bottoms for added comfort.

“Some moms choose to bring their own pillow from home or a Boppy. Again, we provide those things, but just for comfort. If they like something specific, that’s fine,” says Jillian Coulis, RN, BSN, nurse manager for postpartum and labor and delivery, the Birth Place, Olathe Health.

If your c-section is scheduled ahead of time, arrive at the hospital two hours before the procedure. You’ll likely be instructed not to eat or drink anything past midnight or eight hours before surgery time. Avoid wearing nail polish, which can interfere with the accuracy of the oxygen reader on your finger, and jewelry. If you wear contacts, bring your glasses.

“Sometimes the anesthesia can be drying to your system, and we don’t want you not to be able to see your baby if you’re feeling dried out after the procedure,” Coulis says.

When you arrive. You’ll quickly get to know your nurse, who will care for you throughout the experience. At this time, your baby’s heartbeat will be monitored. You’ll have labs drawn and receive IV fluids for hydration. Your nurse will explain what you and your partner can expect during the procedure, and you can address any concerns with the anesthesiologist and your physician.

Sights, sounds and sensations. Once in the operating room (OR), you’ll receive anesthesia, which will cause your legs to go numb. You’ll be connected to a Foley catheter and a compression device, which reduces the risk for blood clots. Medical staff will place a drape over you.

“If a patient requests, we even have clear drapes so the patient can view her surgery as Baby is delivered,” Mourek says.

You shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure, but you will feel tugging and pulling sensations.

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“

You did what you needed to do to get your baby safely into the world, and that is what being an amazing mother is all about!

”

You’ll be surrounded by your partner or support person and health care providers, including the surgeon, your RN, anesthesia team members, the nursery RN who will care for your baby, and an OB tech who assists the surgeon.

“From the time the surgery starts to the time the baby is born is fairly quick, and you will be meeting your new little bundle of joy before you know it!” Mourek says.

Capture the moment. “At the Birth Place, we have a monitor that captures what is happening on the baby warmer right after delivery,” Mourek says. “The father, or the mother’s support person, is invited to take photos at the warmer and touch the baby if they want.”

Skin-to-skin right away. Research shows enormous benefits for babies who receive skin-to-skin contact with their mothers soon after delivery, including enhanced motherbaby bonding, more successful breastfeeding, and a less stressed baby. As long as you and your newborn are stable, you’ll be cuddling your baby before you leave the OR. “Sometimes babies even begin breastfeeding in the operating room,” Mourek says.

After a couple of hours in the recovery room, you and your newborn will be transferred to a postpartum room. Your hospital stay is typically around three to four days.

A longer recovery. Anyone who tells you that a c-section is the easy way out of delivery hasn’t had to recover from one. Healing from a c-section takes about six weeks, which can be challenging while also caring for a demanding newborn.

“I know this frequently heard advice is easier said than done, but it’s true: Sleep or rest when your baby naps,” Mourek says. “Even a few minutes of rest here and there throughout the day can help.”

Although you should avoid strenuous exercise, gentle movement like walks can help your body heal and prevent constipation and blood clots. Choose nutritious foods and drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to boost your milk supply and avoid constipation.

Managing pain and discomfort. A heating pad can help relieve discomfort at the surgical site. Also, take pain medications as prescribed. Consult your doctor about which medications are safe to take while breastfeeding.

“You want to keep your pain level at a tolerable rate so you can take care of yourself and your new baby,” Mourek says.

Feeling disappointed or sad? The postpartum period can stir up a roller coaster of emotions for any new mom. If your baby’s delivery didn’t go as you envisioned, it’s normal to feel grief, disappointment or guilt. But these feelings can also put you at greater risk for postpartum depression.

“It’s okay to be disappointed. It’s okay to be sad. There’s nothing that you did wrong or could have done differently to end up with a c-section,” Coulis says. “Those are valid things to feel, and you don’t need to act like it didn’t happen.”

Process your feelings with a trusted friend, loved one, partner, physician or a counselor.

“A healthy mom and a healthy baby are the most important. Nobody is a lesser mother or woman for having a c-section,” Mourek says. “You did what you needed to do to get your baby safely into the world, and that is what being an amazing mother is all about!”

Christa Melnyk Hines is a nationally published writer based in Olathe. She is the mom of two sons, ages 13 and 15—both delivered by c-section.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Plan for the unexpected

• Address concerns/questions with your physician.

• Seek information from reputable sources.

• Attend hospital birthing classes, available both online and in-person. *Source: “Births—Methods of Delivery,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC.gov/nchs/fastats/delivery.htm. kcparent.com july-september 2020

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PREGNANCY

sleep disruption SOLUTIONS

W

Birthing CD. If insomnia becomes a chronic problem, speak to your doctor about taking something safe to help with sleep.

Problem: Insomnia.

Solutions: Pillows galore! Consider purchasing a U-shaped body pillow made just for pregnant women, or just grab pillows from home and place one behind your back, one under your belly and one between your knees. Hanging out on a heating pad for a while before bed does wonders for lower back pain, but never fall asleep on one.

hat pregnant woman doesn’t enjoy her sleep being interrupted 12 times a night while she goes to the bathroom, sniffles through a stuffy nose and rubs out a few leg cramps? You may theoretically get eight hours of sleep at night, but the sleep disturbances of pregnancy (a good way to prepare you for caring for a newborn in the middle of the night) can leave you feeling quite groggy the next morning. Below is a problem-solving guide to help you gain some longer stretches of sleep.

Solutions: Take a warm bath and do some relaxation exercises before bed. Try to stop worrying about things like what color to paint the nursery or who to invite to the baby shower. White noise from something like a fan may help. If your baby is squirming and kicking, try rocking back and forth in bed or rubbing your belly to get him to sleep. If you can’t sleep because you’re worried about labor, arm yourself during the day with information from books and the Internet (take a pass on any negative stories you may come across).

Try listening to Dr. Frank Lawlis’s Positive

14 july-september 2020 kcparent.com

Problem: Back, hip and leg pain caused by carrying extra weight. Jane Hammond of Olathe says, “I remember third trimester with my daughter Eden–I was a bloated walrus! My hips hurt so bad, and lying on one side was taking its toll.”

Problem: Leg cramps. (I swear these were designed to prepare you for the pain of labor!)

Solutions: If you feel a leg cramp coming on, keep your toes pointed toward yourself.

If you get a cramp anyway, massage the spot until the cramp subsides. Julie Dorset of Kansas City says, “I had bad leg cramps, and the doctor recommended I take calcium tablets for them.”

Problem: Having to get up to go to the bathroom every couple of hours.

Solutions: Try not to drink too much a couple of hours before you go to sleep, limit your caffeine intake and make sure you go to the bathroom before getting into bed.

Other than that, unfortunately, there’s not too much you can do (unless you want to wear Depends) since your baby has taken up residence on top of your bladder. Jen Wood of Lenexa says, “I was so thankful to finally have my kids and not be pregnant so I wasn’t waking hourly to go to the bathroom. I actually enjoyed the 2 a.m. feedings because at least I could sleep for 3 hours at a time!”

Problem: Heartburn. Kyle Boeglin of Overland Park says, “With both my boys, I had horrible heartburn and acid reflux during my third trimester.”

Solutions: Keep some Tums on your headboard, nightstand or under your pillow. For worse heartburn, ask your doctor if you can use something like Zantac for longer relief. Kyle B. also says, “Toward the end of both pregnancies, sleeping propped up on pillows was the only way I could get any rest.”

You may theoretically get eight hours of sleep at night, but the sleep disturbances of pregnancy (a good way to prepare you for caring for a newborn in the middle of the night) can leave you feeling quite groggy the next morning.

Problem: Hunger and thirst in the middle of the night.

Solutions: Of course, the solution will exacerbate the problem of frequent bathroom trips, but keep a bottle of water by your bed and some snacks like those packaged peanut butter crackers. If you must get up, grab some milk or turkey, both of which contain the sleep-inducing tryptophan.

of these sleep problems strikes, just grab this handy article (better yet, post it by your bed!) for some instant relief. Happy slumbering!

Kerrie McLoughlin (TheKerrieShow.com) has experienced her share of sleep disturbances, including drooling, with five pregnancies.

As always, please consult with your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Problem: Stuffy nose.

Solutions: Check with your doctor first, but sometimes a simple saline nasal spray will work just fine. Also, some doctors may recommend something like Flonase or ChlorTrimeton for allergies. Over-thecounter nasal sprays are recommended for use for no more than a few days, and only if nothing else does the trick.

So now you know you don’t have to wake up feeling like a zombie in the morning just because you’re pregnant! When one

Relaxation Exercises to Try Before Bed

• Deep breathing • Visualization • Tensing each body part then relaxing it

• Clearing your mind of all thoughts

• Listening to a relax playlist on Spotify

Serving the Northland for for Susan L. Storm MD over 30 25 years years Laurie D. Riddell MD over Growing young minds around the world.

Growing young mindsErmalyn around theKubart world. MD Pediatric Care North Stephanie A Marx MD Play & Learn Classes Kathyrn Hauptmann MD 8781 n. platte purchase drive Susan L. Storm MD Melissa J. Beard MD kansas city, mo 64155 Laurie D. Riddell MD Stephanie R. Bays DO Ermalyn Kubart MD Heather J. Malone MD 30Years Stephanie A Marx MD tel 816.587.3200 Kathleen Ballenger PNP Sus an MD Try a Kathyrn Hauptmann 878 L a fax 816.587.7644 1n urie L. Sto Monica M. PNP FRRondeau . k p a E MelissaE J. Beard MDrm latt nsa ep class foE s ci purchase rma D. Ridd 8781ten. urc drive r l 8platte ty, 1 h Kelly Walther m childrePNP 6 S l a . yn DOell Stephanie o 6 www.pediatriccarenorth.com fax city,58mo te R. Bays se kansas n 7 64155

gymboreeclasses.com gymboreeclasses.com MISSION FARMS in Leawood, KS 10517 Mission Road 913-262-3339

Stephanie A. Marx MD Melissa J. Beard MD

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kcparent.com july-september 2020

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913.676.2300 AdventHealthKC.com/birthcenter

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816.698.7300 CenterpointMedical.com/ uniquedelivery

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Check out the virtual Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com MENORAH MEDICAL CENTER 5721 W. 119th St. Overland Park, KS 66209 The spa-like environment at the Women’s Center at Menorah Medical Center is nurturing, relaxing and secure for expectant moms, featuring private and spacious suites for labor, birth and recovery for the length of stay. Backed by HCA Midwest Health’s technology and expertise, the Women’s Center provides compassionate doctors specializing in mother-baby care and experienced nurses and support staff dedicated to caring for moms and newborns. Should the need arise, Menorah has a Level II NICU for babies requiring advanced 24/7 care.

1.877.769.6636 MenorahMedicalCenter.com/ uniquedelivery

OLATHE MEDICAL CENTER 20333 W. 151st St. Olathe, KS 66061

The four-story Birth Place blends the care you’ve grown to trust at Olathe Medical Center with an impressive facility you’ll immediately love. Every detail of the Birth Place is designed to provide the most comforting experience, from personalized music and overhead fans for mom in the delivery room to queen-sized beds in the MotherBaby Suite. The Level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) includes secure, webcam-enabled nurseries and individual rooms where you can stay overnight with your baby.

Find a doctor who delivers at OMC. 913.791.4396 OlatheHealth.org/birthplace

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HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section OVERLAND PARK REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 10500 Quivira Rd. Overland Park, KS 66215 The comfort and nurturing environment of Overland Park Regional Medical Center is matched only by our expertise and resources including experienced, skilled nurses and board-certified obstetricians and perinatologists available 24/7. Our spacious birthing suites are designed for privacy and relaxation. Also offered: the region’s first and most comprehensive certified nurse midwife program, high-risk momand-baby specialists including Johnson County’s most advanced NICU with access to pediatric specialty care and the region’s only dedicated antepartum unit. We’re here for your family after you go home too, with a dedicated Pediatric ER and Johnson County’s only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

913.541.5058 OPRMC.com/uniquedelivery

RESEARCH MEDICAL CENTER 2316 E. Meyer Blvd.

Kansas City, MO 64132 Expectant moms feel confident and comfortable before, during and after giving birth with modern and spacious birthing and recovery suites at Research Medical Center, which is backed by HCA Midwest Health’s technology and resources.

Research has doctors specializing in mother-baby care and dedicated, experienced nurses and support staff, plus the region’s most comprehensive certified nursemidwife program. Research is one of only a few hospitals in the region to offer comprehensive OB hospitalist and OB emergency services, and a Level III NICU is available.

816.276.3206 ResearchMedicalCenter.com/ uniquedelivery

18 july-september 2020 kcparent.com

Tips to Make Labor Easier

By Lauren Greenlee

Make a List and Check It Twice

Conserve Your Energy

Don’t let labor take you by surprise.

Develop a plan with the aid of your doctor or midwife so you know what to do when it strikes. While consulting with your medical provider, ask questions: “How long should I labor at home before heading to the birthing center? And when should I call the hospital to inform them I’m in labor?” Schedule a visit to your hospital’s birthing center to familiarize yourself with the facility and keep tabs on what you should bring with you.

Labor potentially can be a long process, so it’s important to pace yourself. Because you will likely spend the early stages of labor at home, try to relax while there as much as possible. Take a warm shower or ask your spouse to provide a gentle massage. Listen to a favorite soothing playlist and don’t forget to drink plenty of water and fuel your body well.

Feel the Burn Pregnancy is not the time to start a new high-impact workout or set out to break personal fitness records, but it’s a wonderful time to implement mild physical activity such as walking, swimming or prenatal yoga to build the endurance you will need throughout labor. As always, consult with your doctor while developing a prenatal fitness plan.

You’ve Got a Friend in Me According to the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, women who receive continuous care throughout labor from a support person such as a doula are more than 50 percent less likely to need a C-section, 30 percent less likely to use pain medication and, perhaps most impressively, have labors that are 25 percent shorter than those who didn’t have a support team.

Check out the interactive virtual

Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com where users can find comprehensive information on hospitals, including descriptions, images, videos, social media links and much more!

Other hospitals in the Kansas City metro that offer labor and delivery services include: Lawrence Memorial Hospital Liberty Hospital North Kansas City Hospital Providence Medical Center Saint Luke's East Hospital Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City Saint Luke's North Hospital Saint Luke's South Hospital Truman Medical Center Hospital Hill Truman Medical Center Lakewood University of Kansas Health System kcparent.com july-september 2020

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FIVE THINGS

i’d tell my new mom self

F

ive years into motherhood, I still don’t really know what I’m doing.

But I feel more confident than I did that blur of a joyous day I brought my baby boy home from the hospital in my loose maternity pants and baggy t-shirt with unwashed hair and swollen feet. If you were to ask me about those first weeks, I wouldn’t recall many specifics. The pain meds and sleep deprivation had me in a daze.

I remember relief when I first saw my tiny human’s face. I remember feeling like I had two days to learn how to swaddle, breastfeed, get to know him and allow my body to heal while dealing with wild hormones and trying to sleep when he slept without crying for no reason. What a whirlwind. It was a stressful, blissful time.

Just when you think you are finally nailing mom life, catching up on sleep, perfecting a routine, a new stage throws you off your game. That’s when you learn the big secret: There is no right way to navigate motherhood. If I could go back in time and give myself any advice, I would probably share these five little nuggets of wisdom.

Join the cliché mom’s group.

You’ll need more support than you think. You won’t feel like being social or putting on pants, but force yourself. Firsttime motherhood can be lonely. You may need kindred spirits to help you navigate postpartum depression or weeks of sleep deprivation. And you can compare baby poop horror stories looking like a pack of zombies and laughing over glasses of water since you can’t drink alcohol while breastfeeding.

Enjoy the time with your baby.

Co-sleep to your heart’s content. Don’t worry about doing the dishes (unless you’ve got an ant problem), hold your baby while he sleeps instead of folding each load of laundry, wear him in the Ergo baby carrier as much as you want, go ahead and snap those 500 photos of him sleeping. You won’t regret any of this later.

If enjoying that time means you want to breastfeed until Baby’s a year old, go for it. If it means you decide to exclusively pump and bottle feed, that’s great. If you choose to use formula, that’s fine, too.

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Schedule, schedule, schedule.

Get yourself into a routine of nursing (or bottle feeding), pumping, cleaning, taking a walk, a 20-minute yoga session, making yourself a smoothie, going for a drive, etc., so you can create even a little organized chaos. Any slight predictability will help your sanity.

Plan a once-a-week coffee date with close friends. Schedule a date night with your partner while the grandparents babysit.

After particularly tough nights that all blur together, you’ll have these outings to look forward to.

Accept help.

Don’t try to prove to yourself you can do it all. Don’t feel guilty about your mom visiting at 8:00 in the evening just to hold the baby after his feeding so you can sleep for three whole uninterrupted hours (really, she’ll love it, I promise). Let your parentsin-law, sisters, friends, extended relatives, anyone you trust, babysit for a couple hours.

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS Order Online.

View the menu and session dates, then place your order and select your preferred mode: • Self-Assembly • Made for You • NEW Home Delivery

Cook At Home.

Thaw 3-5 meals each week, cook as directed, and enjoy dinner together.

Your baby may cry, she’ll miss you, and you’ll hate that, but you also need the break to recharge.

Figure out the best way you want to spend that time recharging. Is it scrolling through your phone (probably not), taking a bubble bath or writing in your journal?

Do you just need a nap? Maybe read a book with your coffee. Knowing what I know now, I would have used my quality self-care minutes to meditate and practice yoga after a good cup of coffee. And I would be extra mindful during that time, soaking up every minute. (The next night, your baby might be awake all hours teething.)

Buy diapers, wipes and onesies, not the latest, fanciest gadgets.

At 3:00 in the morning, you won’t be worried about which brand of swaddle blankets you bought for your baby, you’ll just need stuff to clean the poop and spit-up covering him. You won’t care about a $20 teething giraffe or the latest bassinet model.

Moms literally are in survival mode those first few weeks. You change diapers, nurse (or bottle feed), burp, rock to sleep, pump, repeat. Showering is optional, and sleep is only occasional.

Don’t be so hard on yourself. No matter how you navigate each stage, the most important piece of wisdom I would share is that you’re never doing it wrong, it’s just really that hard. You’ll probably drive your sleeping baby around in the car a lot and grab yourself coffees to stay awake (choose those coffee runs wisely, though, because if you’re breastfeeding, caffeine goes straight to your milk and then to your baby’s stomach, which isn’t fun. Good luck—you can do it!

Emily Morrison is a freelance writer, former copy editor, full-time mommy and Disney fanatic who lives in Independence with her husband, 4-year-old son and two dogs.

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www.dreamdinners.com OverlandParkKS@dreamdinners.com 913.491.6733 kcparent.com july-september 2020

21

FAVORITE

LOCAL GIFTS FOR MOM & BABY Shopping for new baby and mom gifts is always fun when you know of a new bundle of joy arriving. These local shops sell fantastic products for Baby and Mom.

KANSAS CITY KREATIONS This online shop sells apparel and jewelry with fun designs.

For Baby The shop sells toddler t-shirts, a perfect gift for little ones after they’ve all to soon outgrown their onesies. KansasCityKreations.com/collections/toddler-shirts

For New Moms Hand-stamped custom jewelry is a beautiful keepsake that new moms will love. Kansas City Kreations makes the custom designs featuring the child’s name and birthstone. KansasCityKreations.com

MADE IN KANSAS CITY Made in Kansas City is the ultimate go-to shop for the best locally made products. The shop is at home in Briarcliff, Downtown KC, Country Club Plaza, Corinth Square, Crossroads and Prairiefire.

For Baby Their onesies, bibs and shirts for infants are adorable with a variety of Kansas City designs, including the classic Charlie Hustle heart, rainbows and made in KC designs. Shop online at MadeInKC.co/collections/kids-baby.

For New Moms Made in Kansas City sells a variety of care packages featuring locally made goods, including self-care packages with our favorite Zum bar soap, Messner Farms lip balm, Untamed candles and aromatherapy. Other care packages include snacks, cozy favorites and gifts.

MadeInKC.co/collections/care-package

RAINY DAY BOOKS This Fairway bookstore has been a local mecca for bibliophiles since 1975. RainyDayBooks.com

For Baby Rainy Day Books carries a wide variety of children’s books including those written by local authors. We especially enjoy books by local author and illustrator Stephen T. Johnson, who wrote Music Is, Alphabet City, My Little Red Fire Truck, My Little Pink Princess Purse, My Little Blue Robot and more beloved children’s titles.

For New Moms The shop carries books for every interest, but for those looking for works by local writers, you may enjoy Julie Mulhern, bestselling author of The Country Club Murders. She is a Kansas City native who writes the series featuring socialite Ellison Russell who teams up with Detective Anarchy Jones to investigate crimes in 1970s Kansas City.

BUNKER Bunker, located in Westport, sells a variety of Kansas City apparel and home goods.

For Baby Your future Chiefs and Royals fans will look great in their fan apparel for tots. Onesies and shirts are featured in their shop. BunkerOnline.com/bunkermade-kcmo-youth-apparel.html

For New Moms New and expectant moms will want a bit of shade this summer, and Bunker’s stylin’ ball caps are a local favorite. BunkerOnline.com

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LEGENDS OUTLETS You can find all the things you need for Mom and Baby at Legends Outlets. In addition to the shops below, GAP Outlet, Old Navy, JC Penney, TJ Maxx, Target and other stores at the shopping center carry great products for the family.

For Baby Carter’s Outlet sells cute, quality apparel for babies and toddlers. With a wide selection of styles, you’ll find everything you need for the little one’s wardrobe.

LegendsShopping.com/stores/children/carters-2

For New Moms Motherhood Maternity Outlet sells affordable, stylish maternity clothes. They even sell maternity t-shirts supporting our local teams!

LegendsShopping.com/stores/women/motherhood-maternity-outlet

MESSNER BEE FARM Messner Bee Farm raises honeybees right in the heart of Kansas City. The shop uses natural beekeeping practices and creates products made with beeswax and honey. This local shop is a favorite for their raw honey, as well as their body products. MessnerBeeFarm.com

For Baby The shop’s soaps are all-natural with no harmful chemicals and are safe for the entire family. A variety of scents, from lemongrass, to lavender oatmeal and citrus sea salt, will make your little one smell fresh and clean.

For New Moms Lip balms, soaps, solid perfumes, deodorants and lotions are the specialty at Messner Bee Farm. The products are made with natural ingredients. With a variety of flavors, scents and colors available, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for the new mother—but our favorite is the Summer Collection of lip balms.

NORMAL HUMAN This eclectic shop, located in the Crossroads, focuses on selling unique products that celebrate Kansas City’s artists and penchant for design.

For Baby In addition to an array of clever and creative onesies, they also sell these sweet bibs celebrating every native’s love for barbecue. NormalHuman.com/collections/kids

For New Moms Their heavy duty totes make super stylish diaper bags. After all, who says your diaper bag has to look like baby shower wrapping paper? These totes will come in handy all through the ages and stages of parenting. NormalHuman.com/collections/bags

MORE IDEAS These local businesses specialize in products and services that make perfect shower gifts.

Fat Brain Toys Fat Brain Toys, located in Prairiefire, is one of our favorite local toy stores. The shop specializes in educational toys that inspire creativity and imagination. Open-ended toys with limitless possibility are their signature. They invite shoppers to try products before they buy them and to select toys that will grow with the child. This is the perfect place to start your child’s new toy collection. FatBrainToys.com

Dream Dinners Dream Dinners, located in Overland Park, takes the stress out of dinnertime. Patrons choose meals from the Dream Dinners menu to easily assemble as freezer meals to cook and enjoy at home later.

The friendly staff guides you through the simple process—they provide the food, the recipes, the cleanup and the simplicity. DreamDinners.com

Kristina Light loves raising her girls in her hometown, and their family has always celebrated their KC heritage. kcparent.com july-september 2020

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new moms’

health: post-delivery conditions to watch for once you’re home

Doctors urge women who feel they may have postpartum symptoms to seek help right away, even if you’re feeling uncertain. Call your OB or midwife, or go to the emergency room.

Y

ou made your way through the pregnancy, perhaps breezed through childbirth (or not), and now you’re back home and enjoying your time with Baby. While it’s important to stay focused on caring for your little one, it’s equally important to keep an eye on yourself and watch for postpartum complications. Many new moms aren’t aware of the health problems, some life-threatening, that can happen in the weeks and months following birth.

So, here are some warning signs and symptoms to be alert for.

postpartum hemorrhage (Warning signs: If you notice an increase in heavy bleeding and are soaking several pads per hour after giving birth, you will want to seek medical help right away.) Although postpartum hemorrhage is one of the most common complications that puts moms at risk in the days and weeks after childbirth, it’s still pretty rare (affecting less than 5 percent of women who give birth).

It typically occurs immediately after delivery but can occur up to about a month postpartum. Those at elevated risk for hemorrhaging are women who have c-sections, vacuum or forcepsassisted deliveries or a twin or multiple pregnancy, or suffer obesity or blood pressure disorders. If left untreated, the condition is life-threatening.

retained placenta (Warning Signs: Fever, bleeding, excessive bleeding and clots.) Part of the placenta, which is usually delivered shortly after your baby is born, remains inside the uterus after delivery. This happens when the uterus didn’t contract enough to push the placenta from the womb, or when the cervix closes before all the placenta is expelled. Sometimes, though, the placenta is unable to detach naturally from the uterus and will need manual removal. Symptoms

of a retained placenta tend to show themselves as early as 24 hours after delivery and as late as 10 or more days after giving birth.

postpartum sepsis (Warning Signs: Fever above 100.4 degrees, chills, dizziness and exhaustion.)

Sepsis is an advanced, life-threatening stage of infection in which the body begins to shut down. Yes, it’s scary, and it can be caused by numerous postpartum infections, such as urinary tract, bladder, breast, blood, and even uterine infections. If any of these are left untreated or are unresponsive to antibiotics, they can be the precursors to sepsis.

epidural headache (Warning Signs: Severe headache, much like a migraine, that gets worse when sitting or standing but gets better when lying down.) It’s not uncommon to get headaches postpartum. After all, you’re a new mom and you’re sleepdeprived. However, pay attention to a severe headache that comes with neck pain, nausea, and a sensitivity to bright lights, especially if it goes away when you lie down. It’s quite likely this is an epidural headache (also called a postdural puncture headache). About one in 100 women who undergo epidurals get them. The cause is a puncture to the membrane that contains the cerebrospinal fluid, which encases the spinal cord and brain. When the puncture leaks, it creates a pressure imbalance in the fluid, which results in a really bad headache. While they typically develop before women leave the hospital, they can sometimes take up to two or three days to fully develop.

If you have symptoms similar to these, go back to the hospital to have it checked out. The most common fix is having an anesthetist inject some of your own blood into the spinal fluid to increase pressure, which creates a clot that will stop the leaks. Relief is immediate.

deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (Warning Signs: Red or swollen calf, shortness of breath, chest pain, increased heart rate, pain with breathing.) One of the biggest threats to women during and up to six weeks after pregnancy is blood clots in the circulatory system due to increased estrogen and other bloodclotting proteins. Women who are over 35, who smoke, have diabetes, are on bed rest, recovering from c-sections, or who suffer from obesity are at higher risks of developing clots. Symptoms can be subtle. Although all pregnant women swell, what you want to watch out for is swelling on one leg more than the other. One leg may even be red and hot to the touch. You may also feel shortness of breath—much like a severe anxiety attack. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away.

Once detected, clots can be treated with blood thinners. Untreated, clots can move through the circulatory system and reach the lungs. This is known as a pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening.

gall stones and gallbladder disease (Warning Signs: Severe heart attack-like pain in the right upper rib cage or chest, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting.) Rarely are pregnant women told that gallbladder issues can accompany pregnancy. However, issues with the gall system can accompany or follow childbirth. If gallstones develop, they can be removed, as can the entire gallbladder. However, if untreated, gallbladder issues can cause rupture or result in infection.

Gina Klein resides in Kansas City with her husband, two daughters and houseful of rescued pets.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

kcparent.com july-september 2020

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what you

R E A L LY

learn in childbirth class

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inding out I was pregnant with my first child was one of the most exciting days of my life! My thrill was quickly clouded with a lot of anxiety—about morning sickness, the health of the baby and whether I could still eat the cold turkey sandwiches I usually ate daily.

But the biggest cloud looming over my head consisted of worries over the experience of childbirth: How long would it take?

What would it feel like? Could I handle the pain? I began asking my mother, sisters and any friends who had been through this before, and while I enjoyed all of the stories, they didn’t really help me feel any more prepared. When I learned the hospital where I planned to give birth offered these classes, I signed up right away.

The American Pregnancy Association says the information that childbirth classes provide you can lessen anxiety, build confidence and provide a safe way to discuss your fears before the big day.

Many of our birth class takeaways definitely made my husband and me feel more prepared for the labor and birth experience—while others gave us something to laugh about! Here are four things that surprised us in our first childbirth class:

acronyms matter …And they may ruin some foods for you! TACO is actually a reminder for what to tell your doctor if you think your water has broken: Time it happened, Amount of fluid, Color of the fluid and Odor. Although my water didn’t break until after I was in labor at the hospital, I know some mom friends who had either a gush of fluid or a slow leak signaling the start of labor, and reporting the TACO information was helpful for their medical team.

I know now that the Lifesaver analogy is quite common, but my husband and I had never heard of this before our classes.

He now says he can’t look at a Lifesaver candy, let alone eat one, without thinking about a cervix dilating. And tacos were off the table for a while at our house!

leave your modesty at the door I was definitely prepared for being in my own vulnerable positions for checkups and delivery, but one KC mom says she and her husband were caught unaware when they viewed an actual childbirth video in class, leaving nothing to the imagination. While others in the class watched seriously and took notes, she found herself shushing her husband who found the situation amusing and uncomfortable at the same time. In short, run this one by your husband and be prepared also to shush him to keep him from embarrassing you!

you will also learn about your partner We came into our birthing class married for five years and felt like we knew each other pretty well. But as always, being in a new situation together let us see each other in a new light. My husband reported being surprised, and a little impressed, with my confident attitude toward the impending labor. I will attribute part of my calmness to the fact that I had pretty bad morning sickness all throughout my pregnancy, and I simply would do anything to get this baby out! But it was nice to have him think of me as brave. And I loved seeing him in this nurturing, caring and supportive role. It was my first little glimpse of what he would be

like as a father. To top it off, having our childbirth meetings gave us the opportunity to have a weekly date night, and we made it a regular event to go out and talk about the class over our favorite frozen custard treat.

your labor may go differently than anything you hear in class Our class prepared us with loads of helpful labor-coping strategies: take a walk, watch Netflix, tidy up the nursery and get a massage from your partner. We thought we were so prepared with options to pass the time when the first contraction hit … and we were. The problem was, my labor was so fast that we didn’t use any! When I woke up and yelped to a hard contraction, my husband rolled over in bed and said “You’re doing great sweetie, let me know when you’re in the next stage and need me.” He thought we had plenty of time to hang around and do our “early labor activities.” I got up and tried to work in the nursery, but I ended up progressing so quickly we barely had time to throw some things in a bag and head to the hospital. When I called my mom to tell her I thought I was in labor, I was having difficulty getting a sentence out. We had been so set on doing most of the labor at home, I had to convince my husband that we weren’t going to be at home for a while after all. And we were glad we went when we did, because our little boy came shortly after we arrived at the hospital. My takeaway: Take all of the different labor scenarios with a grain of salt. It’s good to be prepared for all situations, but yours may still go differently than you think!

Although your labor and delivery will be unique, you and your partner still will learn a great amount from a class. Being armed with information and having a shared understanding of important terms will get you both on the same page, ease anxiety and concern and, most importantly, put the focus on that sweet little babe you are blessed to hold in your arms soon.

where can i find a childbirth class?

To start, check with where you choose to deliver for childbirth class options. You get to choose which one suits you. You may want a traditional class or one that aligns with the particular birthing method you plan to use. If you’re looking for the perfect place to deliver your bundle of joy, check out the Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com.

Emily Cline is a freelance writer and instructor of education at a local university. She lives in Lenexa with her husband, Joseph, and 3-year-old son, Fitzgerald.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Source: AmericanPregnancy.org/labor-and-birth/childbirtheducation-classes

kcparent.com july-september 2020

27

Big Moments

Y

i n b a b y ’s f i r s t y e a r

our baby’s first year will be full of exciting moments of growth and development. These milestones will come so quickly that you’ll soon wonder where your newborn baby went. Here’s a list of what to expect in your baby’s development during the first year. Make sure to soak in these sweet moments and keep the camera ready and your baby book handy! These are moments you will want to document. Keep in mind your child might reach some milestones earlier than children and others a little later. If you have concerns about your baby, be sure to talk to your pediatrician.

Baby’s first smile:

2-3 months

You won’t be able to stop grinning when your little one gives you his first smile. At around 2 to 3 months old, babies will start smiling in response to your smile and things around them. Yes, newborn smiles are sweet, but intentional smiles that are in response to other things mean so much more. Your heart will melt with each and every grin.

Rolling over:

4 months

Rolling over is the first milestone that makes your baby mobile. Most babies start rolling from tummy to back at around 4 months old. With enough practice, your little one will be rolling from back to tummy around 5 to 6 months. Before you know it, your baby will be able to get where he wants to go, just by rolling around.

Don’t be surprised to find your little one on the other side of the room in just a few minutes from rolling his way there. This is a good time to babyproof and make sure choking hazards are out of reach.

Sleeping through the night:

6 months

One of the milestones parents looks forward to most is that glorious day when they wake up and realize their baby slept through the night. A full 8 hours of sleep is heavenly! You might run into Baby’s room to make sure she’s okay only to find her in a sweet slumber. Doctors refer to sleeping through the night as uninterrupted sleep for 6 to 9 hours. For most babies, this happens around 6 months old, but some babies master sleeping through the night closer to 4 months, and others might not sleep through the night until 1 year old. To help your child sleep through the night, implement good sleep habits like creating a consistent bedtime routine.

For a complete list of developmental milestones in Baby’s first year, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics’ website, AAP.org.

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Sitting up:

6 months

At about 6 months old, your baby will move into the next phase of mobility, sitting up. Most babies will be able to sit up with a bit of assistance from Mom and Dad or by being propped up with pillows. A little time and practice are needed for your baby to be able to sit up on her own without you positioning her first. By 7 to 9 months, Baby should be a pro at sitting up independently.

7

Crawling: months

By around 7 months, you will see your little one start crawling. Babies on the move employ several different crawling styles—it will be fun to see which one your baby chooses to get around. He might start with a scoot on his bottom that turns into an army crawl and finally into the classic crawling position. Some babies might skip crawling altogether and go straight to stranding, cruising and walking. With your baby on the move, make sure you put up all your baby gates to keep the tiny traveler away from stairways and other hazardous areas of the house. It’s also a good idea to babyproof any low cabinets and keep breakable items out of Baby’s reach.

First Words:

9-12 months

Your heart is likely to burst with joy when you hear your little one say, “Ma-ma” or “Da-da” for the first time. This tends to occur between 9 months and a year, although some babies start talking as early as 7 months old. “Da-da” is usually a little easier for babies to say, so mamas, don’t be upset if “Da-da” is the first word. Baby will also learn a few simple words like “no,” “ugh oh” and “bye-bye” around this time.

First Steps:

12 months

At around 1 year old, your baby will really be on the move! Mom and Dad revel in the excitement when they see their little one take those first steps on her own. Most babies begin walking around 1 year old, but some may walk as early as 10 months. Others might not take first steps until closer to 14 months old. Once your little one reaches this milestone, she will seem more like a toddler and less like a baby.

Babies develop at their own speed. This is especially true for babies born prematurely (before 37 weeks of pregnancy).

These babies might need more time to reach their milestones. The age your baby is expected to reach certain milestones is based on his adjusted age, which is based on your child’s due date. If your baby is 6 months old, but was born two months early, his adjusted age is 4 months. Most children catch up to the normal range by the time they are 2 years old.

Regan Lyons is a freelance writer who lives in St. Joseph, MO, with her husband, 5-year-old daughter and soon-to-be newborn baby girl.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com july-september 2020

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TIPS FOR THE

toddler bed transition FROM A

T

he moment I had been dreading for months had arrived. I could no longer contain my triplet 2-year-olds in their cribs. Two-thirds of them were climbing out of them and destroying the room. The one child who couldn’t climb out declared her crib party central. The two monkeys went straight into her crib after they had destroyed their entire bedroom with the fun activities of opening the shades, emptying drawers and dumping diapers. I found them like this on a daily basis. Screaming and cheering as they bounced up and down in one crib together. This is how I knew I could no longer wait to make the transition to toddler beds. Here are some toddler bed transition tips from a triplet mom.

TRIPLET MOM

Wait as long as possible

Make it their own

Be consistent

If your child is climbing out of her crib and wandering the room, the time has arrived to switch to a big kid bed. Climbing in and out of her crib puts your child at a higher risk of falling and getting hurt.

However, if your child is content in the crib and has made no attempt to escape, don’t rush to make the switch. My oldest son slept in his crib without trying to climb out until he was almost 3 years old. Eventually, he became too tall for a crib and he had an easy transition to a twin bed.

If you have decided the time is right to make the switch, get your child excited about his new bed. Purchasing new bedding and pillows can make your little one’s new space more welcoming and exciting. Consider updating his room with new big kid decorations or buying fun pillowcases with a favorite cartoon character on them.

Transitions can be difficult for toddlers but they are easier when you are consistent and stick with it. Most parents worry that once their child does transition to a big kid bed, he will stop sleeping well. For the best results, lay your child down when he is tired and ready to rest. If you followed a daily routine before laying your child down in the crib, continue it. If you didn’t, try starting a daily routine that might look something like this: take a bath, put on pajamas, read a book, brush teeth and visit the restroom, have some snuggles and then get in bed. When your child knows what to expect, he will know that bedtime is not playtime but rather time to rest.

Transitioning from a crib to a big kid bed is a big deal! The experience is exciting, fun and sometimes challenging. Parents can help their kids with this milestone by being supportive and giving positive reinforcement. Praise and reward your child for making it through each night, for taking a nap and for following rules. Before too long, the crib will be a thing of the past.

Choose the right time Many parents will transition their kids to a twin or toddler bed because they need the crib for a soon-to-be-arriving younger sibling. If possible, try to make the transition to a big kid bed when your child has few other transitions going on. Starting a new school, potty training, moving or welcoming a new sibling all can be reasons to delay the switch. If you do have a new baby arriving and need the crib, consider starting the transition shortly after you find out you are pregnant, using a bassinet for Baby for a few months or purchasing a second crib.

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Create a safe environment Whether your child was climbing out of bed before the switch or not, the new bed grants more freedom in the bedroom, so updating safety measures is important.

If a child were to climb on her dresser or bookshelf, it could tip forward and cause serious injury or death. Bolt dressers, bookshelves, changing tables or any other furniture to the wall to make the safest environment for your toddler. Put away breakable items, cover outlets and clear the room of any hazards. If your child can open the bedroom door, consider installing a doorknob safety cover or gate so he cannot wander the house freely if he wakes up earlier than Mom and Dad.

Sarah Lyons is an Olathe mom of six children, including triplets.

C

other heavy furniture pieces ompare in place in any rooms where babyproofing your your child might be left alone, house to slowly even for a second. Never put climbing a ladder. that TV on top of a dresser, as The first rung is lowest to the drawers can be used for the floor and represents a climbing. Put corner or edge no-worry window when bumpers on any furniture your baby just nuzzles you with sharp edges. Make sure and sleeps in one place your baby’s bed is comfy and for the first months of life. safe, and test the crib to make Then, he or she begins to sure your baby cannot fit his roll, scoot, reach and pull head between the slats. If you up. That is when the second can slide a soda can between rung of the ladder becomes the slats, they are too wide. important. This means you Always keep soft items like begin moving certain things blankets, pillows, stuffed toys up a little higher, such as and bumpers out of the sleep glass vases, extension cords, space. anything within that secondSecure cabinet doors rung reach. Cord holders are so little hands don’t find great to keep cords against lotions, cleaning products or the wall. As your tot stands medicines. As we know, those up and climbs farther “up detergent pods and medicines the ladder,” more comes into look appetizing to little ones, grab range.

As your little one takes steps, use the so keep them locked up high, For a fun reminder, post stairstep approach to make your home safe completely out of reach. And a picture of a ladder on your get a lid lock for your toilet. fridge and on the rungs list Make tub time fun but safe for your little one. Prevent scalding by things you need to move up as Baby becomes more mobile. That adjusting your hot water heater so the water gets no hotter than autographed bobblehead of Patrick Mahomes on the coffee table?

120 degrees. Install no-slip strips on the bottom of your tub and a Up it goes onto your mantle! The pretty flower arrangement in the soft cover on the faucet to protect tender heads. Most importantly, corner? Perhaps you place it behind a baby gate or outside. never leave your baby or toddler alone in the tub.

This is a process, and you will react as you go. Watch your child Outlet covers are a simple way to keep fingers from shock for all the clues you need to adapt and rearrange your home. The danger. If necessary, you even place heavy furniture in front of best way to babyproof is to see things the way your baby does. sockets. Another danger to address is blind cords; keep them Get down on your hands and knees and crawl around. Kids can stowed safely in any room your baby will be in. be curious about anything they see, like food in the dog’s dish In the end, babyproofing is an ongoing climb up that ladder. and trinkets on low shelves. You might not notice breakable or Just when you’ve gone over every square inch of your home, you’ll hazardous items when you tower above them. realize your always-growing and more mobile baby can reach Ellen, local mom of 1- and 3-year-old boys, says, “My youngest more—so you begin again. Soon enough, your little explorer won’t son is barely starting to walk, and he is all over the place! I can’t be grabbing keys to put in his mouth. He’ll be grabbing them to take my eyes off him. We even had to secure our toy kitchen to the drive his friends to the ballgame. wall because he kept knocking it over somehow!”

Like Ellen, many parents deal with little speedsters, so Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her beginning the babyproofing stairstep early can be a good idea— personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything even before you bring your little one home. Here are some wonderful about life. common problem areas to check.

Take time to secure your televisions and furniture. Use Sources: WebMD.com, BabyCenter.com, GlowingNest.com. furniture straps to hold those TVs, bookshelves, dressers and

baby proofing

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>> SUMMER 2020 CALENDAR

Visit the KCParent.com calendar for over 1,000 more events!

playdates WEEKLY

Readers: These events typically occur each week, but there may be exceptions.

Please call ahead to verify times and event details.

Story Time Various days and times. Visit MyMCPL.org or JoCoLibrary.org to find a complete list of story times for all ages.

Toddle Time Various days and times, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime features an array of toys for imaginative fun for toddlers with their

Park Play Daily. Kansas City is home to so many great parks and playgrounds for the younger set. Visit KCParent.com for a complete list of parks all over the metro.

parents. OPKansas.org

Family Fun Nights Thursdays in July, 6:00-8:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach

Elephant Expedition Daily, Kansas City Zoo. The new elephant exhibition is open at the zoo. Reserve a time online and plan a visit with the family!

KansasCItyZoo.org Open Jump Daily, Urban Air OPKS and Lenexa. A place for kids of every age to run, play, jump and have fun.

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com

Preschool Open Gym Various days and times, Sports Pavilion (Lawrence). Open gym time for children ages 1-5, along with their parents. LawrenceKS.org

Stop & Farm. Bring the family for fun!

Little Leapers Wed 10:00-Noon & Sun 9:00-11:00, Sky Zone. Little ones bounce under the supervision of their parents and without interference from the big kids. SkyZone.com

Weekend Nature Program Sat 10:00-1:30

Each week offers a different theme and activities. Mahaffie.org

& Sun 1:30-2:00, Prairie Park Nature Center (Lawrence). Nature program may include a short video and going outside to enjoy nature! LawrenceKS.org

Mark your calendar for a fun event for the entire family!

DREAM BIG DAY – SEPT. 26 Join your neighbors and friends for Children’s Dream Big Day, a family-friendly celebration and walk to help find answers and hope for kids. With your help, any dream-big or small-can become a reality. Create a team with your friends and family and register for a fun-filled day. Stay tuned for details about live and virtual activities to rally for the patients and families at Children’s Mercy. Register online at DreamBigDay.org.

VISIT THE CALENDAR AT KCPARENT.COM FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF DAILY EVENTS!

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parents night out

Jazzoo at the Kansas City Zoo

Summer Movie Series July 10, National World War 1 Museum. Bring your favorite blanket and snacks and prepare to go into the trenches with 2019’s blockbuster, 1917! TheWorldWar.org

Light Up the Lawn Aug. 14, Nerman Museum Lawn. Enjoy live music in an outdoor setting at the Light Up the Lawn series. Tonight’s performance by Calvin Arsenia. JCCC.edu/carlsencenter

Jammin’ on the Green Sept. 16, Shawnee Town 1929. Relax under the stars and listen to the sounds of Hot Club KC. Light refreshments available.

ShawneeTown.org

Friday Night Concert Series July 24, Stone Pillar Winery. Bring a blanket to sit on the lawn and enjoy live music and food from a tasty food truck! Fridays through October. StonePillarVineyard.com

Fall Open House Aug. 28-29, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Get excited for falling leaves and pumpkin spice everything by shopping in Downtown Lee’s Summit this weekend. DowntownLS.org

Brush Creek Art Walk Sept. 18-20,

Stems: A Garden Soiree Aug. 8, Overland Park Arboretum. Sip wine.

Taste delicious food from 25 top restaurants and caterers. Enjoy art, music, beautiful surroundings and more.

ArtsAndRec-op.org

Jazzoo Aug. 28 Kansas City Zoo. This adults-only event features live music, delicious food and a fabulous party as the zoo’s largest annual fundraiser.

JazzooKC.org

Brush Creek. Enjoy art at this outdoor (plein air) painting competition located along the picturesque Country Club Plaza. 816.718.8380

Plaza Art Fair Sept. 25-27, Country Club Plaza. Stroll the streets of the Plaza as artists display their work.

CountryClubPlaza.com

PLEASE CONFIRM EVENT DETAILS WITH LOCATIONS.

kcparent.com july-september 2020

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bellylaughs

Tank– because pregnancy hit me like one!

– Stacey

We asked KC Parent’s 54,000+ Facebook fans: When you were pregnant, what nickname did you give your little one before he or she had an official name? And why?

Janelle: “Dos” because he is numero dos!

Kim: Little Squish because her cheeks looked so sweet and squishy in all our sonograms.

Jamie: We had the hardest time naming our third. We called her “Voldemort, she who shall not be named,” like in Harry Potter.

Judy: Our first grandson was called “Nacho” because he was “Nacho ordinary grandson.”

Deanne: I had terrible nausea that lasted through the first and second trimester. I called my little one my “Sour Patch Kid.” First, they’re sour, and I kept hoping for the day she would turn sweet!

Candance: I found out I was pregnant at 4 weeks, and she was the size of a poppy seed. We called her Poppy my whole pregnancy!

Stacey: Tank—because pregnancy hit me like one!

Danielle: I referred to my son as my PSL (Pumpkin Spiced Little) since he was due in October and I am a pumpkin spice latte fanatic.

Abbie: Bun as in “bun in the oven.” Still call him bunny.

Lisa: Goldfish because I craved Goldfish crackers the whole pregnancy.

Valerie: We called our first, our daughter, Cricket because her legs were so long on the ultrasound!

Ronda: I called my last one Junebug. He was due mid-June but arrived in May.

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GO WILD

Visit the

New

t n a h p Ele n o i t i d e Exp !

EN NOW OP

Reserve Your Timed Ticket Online at KansasCityZoo.org

kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234 | Open Daily | facebook twitter instagram youtube

Deliver in comfort.

Deliver with confidence.

olathehealth.org/birthplace

Be comfortable and confident on your big day. The Birth Place was carefully designed with you in mind. That means cozy suites, luxury amenities and a NICU where you can stay in the same room with your baby. It also means we’re going the extra mile to keep newborns and their families safe and healthy.

Visit The Birth Place — virtually.

We have a new 3D tour at olathehealth.org/birthplace.

913-791-4396