KC Baby & Maternity Winter 2023

Our commitment to do more for kids is at the heart of everything we do, down to each strand of DNA sequenced for genetic research. Together, we can help kids overcome whatever’s standing in their way. Learn more at childrensmercy.org/imagine.

Imagine the Potential

When I was pregnant with my second daughter, I worked hard to prepare my older one to become a big sister. We talked about the new baby, read books, and I even included her in decorating the nursery. I did all I could to get her ready for the transition. One day shortly before my due date, my older came up to me and said, “Now, I know when the new baby is coming. But when does she leave?” Oops! In all I’d done to prepare her for her sister’s arrival, I hadn’t mentioned this was a permanent addition. The baby wasn’t just dropping by for a visit but would be staying with us and would be a member of the family. I’m very glad we were able to clear that up before we brought Baby home! Whether you’re adding a second, third or fourth, preparation is key! Check out pg. 22 for tips on how to help prepare older siblings for the arrival of a new baby.

Along those same lines of preparation, I tried to prepare myself for what to expect while expecting. And again, though I thought I’d done some pretty thorough research, several things popped up that I hadn’t expected. When I read Kim Antisdel’s article on pg. 14, “I’m Expecting but Didn’t Expect This!”, memories flooded back of how hungry I would get during my first pregnancy. I would know when I was getting hungry, and crossing the line from hungry to hangry happened very quickly. Caution to anyone who was near me when I reached that point—it wasn’t pretty. If you are pregnant, I’m sure you’ll also be able to relate to Kim’s article! Pregnancy, like life, is full of the unexpected!

Enjoy winter, KC parents!

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Publisher

Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com

Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com

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Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com

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Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com

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Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com

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Local Contributing Writers

Kim Antisdel (Liberty), Julie Collett (Overland Park), Janelle Cumro-Sultzer (Manhattan), Judy Goppert (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Christa Melnyk-Hines (Olathe), Emily Morrison (Independence), Kailyn Reinhart (Warrensburg)

Mailing Address

11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax

Margaret Sarver,

faux snow sensory bin

Stuck inside and need a fun, easy, warm and cheap idea to entertain your crew? Faux snow is the way to go!

Step one: Measure out 2 1/2 cups baking soda and place into the mixing bowl.

Step two: Add 1/2 cup white conditioner to the baking soda.

Step three: Mix with either your hands or a spoon.

Step four: Add in toys to play in the snow!

Pro tips:

• We easily double or triple the mixture to create way more fun!

• The bathtub is the ideal place to play with the snow prior to a bath. We regularly make this snow, and my kids like to lather their whole bodies in it. If they lather themselves, please make sure they are well rinsed after, so the baking soda does not sit on their skin for days!

• When you’re done with the snow, try adding small amounts of water to the snow to talk about melting snow and also create a fun bath for your kids!

• Because the mixture is made out of baking soda, the mixture can actually help with diaper rash when diluted with water. Please rinse after with clean water.

• Be aware that if you make this into a bath, the conditioner in the mixture will make your children extra slippery!

• If you are able to save the snow, you can easily store this mixture in a sealed plastic bag.

• This can always be played with at the table or highchair!

Janelle Cumro-Sultzer is a family mediator who lives in Manhattan, KS, with her husband, two children and two dogs. Janelle loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.

Supplies:

• 2 1/2 c. baking soda

• 1/2 c. cheap, white conditioner

• Measuring cups

• Mixing bowl or plastic tote

• Mixing spoon

• Small objects to play with in the snow

y baby brushing up on

ou’ve spent your pregnancy dreaming of what your baby will look and act like, and pretty soon that dream will become a reality.

Preparing for life with a newborn—in the first 28 days of life—can be intuitive for some and overwhelming for others. Rest assured you’ll probably do just fine. Babies are surprisingly more resilient than we think they’ll be, and parents are quick learners. Before you know it, taking care of your newborn will be a natural part of your life! Here are some things to consider as you begin to care for your little bundle of joy.

Baby might look a little funny

Not all babies come out looking cherubic. Some may be a little reddish or even purple after birth, and their extremities may take on a slightly bluish tint. This is all thanks to Baby’s blood circulation and will work itself out in time. Others, if jaundiced, may be a little yellow. Still others may have dry, peeling skin or even be covered in fine hair known as lanugo. (Don’t worry—it disappears within the first few weeks!) It’s also completely normal for head shape to vary from baby to baby. Because of the pressure of being in the birth canal, babies may have swollen eyes and elongated or cone-shaped heads. Again, these things work themselves out over time, so don’t be alarmed! What you do want to be on the lookout for is how your baby eats, gains weight (expect them to lose 5-8% of their birth weight within the first few days but regain it by 10 days), sleeps, and relieves themselves. We’ll get into those details later. For now, just enjoy sweet snuggles and that wonderful baby fresh scent!

Bonding is a full-time job

Holding your baby is one of the best parts of having a newborn and one of the best ways of getting to know your new little person. Look into their eyes and snuggle with them. Consider these ways of bonding:

a) Skin to skin. Skin to skin contact not only allows you to bond with your baby, but it’s also good for your baby’s health, helping regulate temperature, heart rate, breathing and improving digestion.

b) Talk to them. Newborns are nearsighted, so getting close to that tiny face and speaking softly is a sweet means of connection.

c) Tummy time. When your baby is awake, tummy time on a soft surface helps aid in their development, plus it’s also a fun way to interact with your little one.

Babies eat often

You and I might need three square meals a day, but expect your newborn to go for a whopping eight to 12 feeding sessions per 24 hours. That’s roughly one to three hours between feedings during the first few days. These power feeding sessions are to be expected at the start when a little one eats very little and needs constant replenishment. As they get older,

babies will eat more with each feeding and, consequently, need to be fed less frequently. Babies will often give you signs that they are hungry before they cry, such as turning their heads restlessly, closing and opening their mouths, or smacking their lips. By looking out for these cues, you can meet their needs before they get distressed.

If breastfeeding is throwing you or Baby some curveballs, reach out for help from a lactation consultant or a La Leche group. Do not hold it against yourself if breastfeeding has challenges or doesn’t work out. At the end of the day, a fed baby is the important thing, regardless of whether he is breastfed or formula fed.

Baby body care

Diapers: Within the first few days of life, your baby will pass a bowel movement called meconium (a thick green-blackish substance). If Baby is breastfed, expect him to poop six to eight times a day. If Baby is formula fed, be on the lookout for one or two bowel movements a day. Poop can vary in color and texture, but generally, breastfed babies have yellowgreen poop that sometimes includes seed-like particles, whereas formula-fed babies will have thicker tan-colored poop.

Rash: Baby’s sensitive skin can be prone to rashes or irritation. To prevent discomfort, change Baby frequently to avoid unnecessary moisture against the skin. If your baby’s skin is sensitive to wipes, consider washing with water and patting dry.

Umbilical cord: The best thing to do with the umbilical cord is to leave it alone until it falls off, usually within the first few weeks. Avoid placing a diaper on top of it (most newborn diapers are shaped to go around it, otherwise you can simply roll the front down) and stick to sponge bathing your baby until it falls off.

Cradle cap: Many babies develop this scaly condition. Do not over-bathe your baby. Use gentle shampoo and use a cradle cap

brush to loosen the scales after bath time. The condition should go away within the first few months.

Fingernails: Baby nails may be soft, but they can still do damage to their own skin. Try trimming with safety clippers designed specifically for babies when your little one is relaxed and asleep. If your baby still ends up with self-inflicted fingernail scratches, consider dressing your infant in nightgowns with built-in mittens.

Crusty eyes: Blocked tear ducts are common within the first few months and can cause a yellow discharge or crusting on the eyelid. Simply moisten a cotton ball in warm water and gently wipe toward the tear duct.

Take care of yourself

Your baby needs a lot of care, but you do, too! This is particularly important if you had a hard delivery, complications or a C-section that makes normal functions such as lifting things or driving a no-go for a while. Decide in advance whether you want a family member or close friend to come stay and offer an extra set of hands during the first few weeks. While some like having someone there that can play “go-fer,” others may prefer the assistance of their spouse exclusively and opt to have time alone to bond together.

If a friend offers to provide a meal train, consider these factors. A fridge can start to overflow with leftovers quickly. Opt to have meals delivered every two or three days instead of daily to avoid waste. And suggest restaurant or grocery store gift cards, which can be used beyond just the first few weeks. This approach also can be a gift to the givers if they find themselves short on time or disinclined to cook.

Lauren Greenlee is a boy-mom of four hailing from Olathe.

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

Holding your baby is one of the best parts of having a newborn and one of the best ways of getting to know your new little person.

COLIC RELIEF FOR BABY (AND YOU!)

It’s one of those nights when absolutely nothing works—not rocking, not swaying, not a pacifier, not nursing, not a bottle, not a car ride. Everything you’ve attempted to soothe your screaming baby has failed.

You’re exhausted. You’re out of stamina. You want to cry, but, honestly, crying takes too much energy and you’d rather save that last 10 percent of your battery to try swaddling your baby again.

They don’t have a fever. You’ve called the nurse hotline just to cover all the bases. She assured you there are no severe illness red flags warranting a midnight visit to the emergency room. You breathe a sigh of relief about that, at least.

Colic, according to Mayo Clinic, is frequent, prolonged and intense crying in a healthy infant. These episodes typically happen in the evening around bedtime. Some call it the “witching hour.”

Colic can be confused with reflux, which actually occurs when food moves back up from a baby’s stomach. Reflux usually happens multiple times a day or even after every feeding, typically clearing up by 18 months of age.

Though some pediatricians prescribe medication for reflux, colic can be trickier to remedy. And reflux can last all day, while colicky babies tend to struggle between 6:00 and midnight. Signs and symptoms of colic may include inconsolable crying, screaming, extending then pulling legs to their tummy, gas, distended stomach, arched back and clenched fists.

Parents who have experienced one or both diagnoses with their newborns can vouch that it’s no easy task to try to calm a baby in distress. Inconsolable babies can take a toll on new—or seasoned—parents, leaving them depleted.

Area mom Jennifer Cordonnier says, to her, colic was a symptom and not an illness. Her baby experienced frequent belly pain because she was allergic to milk. Once dairy was cut from her diet, her baby was much happier.

“One time my baby cried for five hours straight. It was awful,” she shares. “I tried rocking, singing, reading, silence, water (bath), going outside, going on a walk, bouncing.” Eventually her daughter just got tired enough that she gave in to sleeping. Thousands of parents right now probably relate to this exact scenario.

Cordonnier shares a wonderful piece of advice for parents who are feeling dysregulated in the moments of intense crying.

– JENNIFER CORDONNIER

“If Baby is inconsolable and you start feeling angry, put Baby down and walk away,” she suggests. “They are mad regardless. Go regulate and come back. A good five-minute break does wonders.”

“If Baby is inconsolable and you start feeling angry, put Baby down and walk away. They are mad regardless. Go regulate and come back. A good five-minute break does wonders.”

Some parents may opt for noise cancelling headphones in between bouts of intense crying. Some nights you’ve just tried everything, and your baby is overtired, and Mom and Dad need a break. It’s not selfish to regulate your own emotions first before tending to your infant. Your baby benefits most from a well-rested, well-regulated parent.

Most importantly, don’t be afraid to seek support from your family, friends, pediatrician, therapist, sister, neighbor or the mom friend you just met at the park. During this vulnerable, sleepless time in your life, it’s imperative that you have a steady support system in order to take the best care of your baby, and yourself, that you can. Especially if you are experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety, please seek the assistance that you need. You are not alone.

Emily Morrison is a freelance writer, former copy editor, full-time mommy and Disney fanatic who lives in Independence with her husband, son, daughter and dog.

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

TIPS AND TRICKS

• Wear your baby in a ring sling or soft-structured carrier. Ring slings help take pressure off of their tummies while keeping them propped up and in perfect snuggle position.

• Use a sound machine or play soothing background music.

• Take them for a ride in the car. Some babies love their car seats. Others don’t, but it’s worth a shot.

• Invest in a baby swing.

• Keep extra pacifiers on hand.

• Shift carrying positions.

• Burp your baby.

• Take a breather.

• If nursing, try eliminating milk products from your diet.

• Try not to overfeed your baby.

• Softly sing a lullaby while rocking Baby in a rocking chair.

• Try a baby massage.

• Try giving Baby a warm bath with calming lavender soap and swaddle them after.

• Dim the lights and limit visual stimulation.

• Go for a walk in the stroller.

• Make formula changes or adjust your diet (if nursing).

• It’s tough, but try to remember this is temporary. This exhausting stage won’t last forever. You can do it!

EXERCISE WITH

MOMMY AND ME

Anew baby brings a lot of joy and changes to a household. Parents often feel like their schedule and priorities are planned around their child, and it can be difficult to get to the gym as often as before. This doesn’t mean that the new mom or mother-to-be has to give up her workouts altogether. There are plenty of great ways to keep moving while you are expecting, and it’s simple to add exercise to the time you already spend playing with your baby or toddler.

Get rolling

Use your stroller to go for a walk or jog in your neighborhood or at a park. You and Baby are sure to enjoy the fresh air while you get some exercise. Consider having a mom friend meet you to walk and talk—the time is sure to pass quickly while you socialize. If you are expecting, walking is a great way to stay active. Walking is a low impact activity that can be tailored to your abilities by adjusting distance and speed. “I walked every night for 40 minutes,” says Emily Corder, mom of two. “I ended up losing weight while I was pregnant!”

Tummy time

Stretch out on the floor with the baby while you both work on your tummy muscles. Baby is sure to enjoy having Mommy at eye level while you work on your abs. Lie on your back, bend your knees and lift your feet off the floor. You can lay the baby on your shins and slowly move your knees from your chest back to starting position. You can also do crunches and planks while the baby lies next to you.

Baby press

Who needs the free weights when you can simply play with your baby and get the same type of workout? Lie on the floor with the baby on your chest or stomach. Lift the baby under his arms into the air and move him up and down. You can also try standing and lifting the baby from chest height to over your head, then repeat.

Baby bends

For this exercise, you can hold the baby against your chest or use a wrap or baby carrier to keep the baby secure. Stand with feet apart and squat slowly several times. You can also try walking lunges. These are challenging for you and fun for babies.

Dance it off

One of the best ways to sneak in a cardio workout is to turn up the music and dance. You will burn calories without even noticing. Kids of any age will love to join in while you turn your living room into a dance floor. This is also a great way to stay active during pregnancy.

Silly stretch

Stretching is important to keep the body healthy and strong, especially after a workout. Get creative while stretching and use it as a time to interact with the baby. Lay the baby on the floor while you touch your toes. Sing a song or recite a nursery rhyme while you hold the stretch. Make it fun for you and your baby.

Getting back in shape is always a challenge, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. By continuing to remain active during pregnancy and incorporating your baby into workouts, you will not only spend quality time together but you will be burning calories and making yourself a priority at the same time.

Getting back in shape is always a challenge, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun.

KC moms share how they got back into shape post-pregnancy

“While pregnant, I ran until I couldn’t, then walked every day, and I lifted weights as normal. During the six-week recovery, I walked slowly every day with the stroller. Then after I was cleared, I went back to jogging and weights. When the baby is old enough, we upgraded to the jogging stroller, and I would use the childcare at the gym to work out as well.”

– Nicole Pontillo, Stillwell mom of two.

“I went for runs with the kids in the jogging stroller and, after my second, I trained for a half marathon. Pushing them both on hills gets you into shape real fast!”

– Abbie Tillinghasr, Olathe mom of three.

“I made it a goal to get 10,000 steps a day no matter what. Some days I ran, some days I walked, some days I did jumping jacks and squats while my son played or watched a show.”

– Jayne Holmes, Olathe mom of four.

“I enjoyed swimming while pregnant. It was a great relief on my joints.”

– Olathe mom Jennifer Petrehn.

“I did not have time to work out after having the boys, but I lost my 50 pounds of baby weight within 10 weeks of their being born. I attribute this fully to nursing around the clock for three babies.”

– Becky Asher, Olathe mom of triplets.

“Bring a resistance band to the park and work out on the side while the kids are playing nearby.”

– Rachel Helzer, Olathe mom of three.

“I bit the bullet and bought my first jogging stroller before my first baby turned 1 and set a goal of running a 5K after each baby. It got us out of the house, exercised both me and the dog, gave us sunshine and fresh air, Baby occasionally napped, and we often ran to parks to meet friends, so it was social too. Besides running I was willing to try new things like WERQ and Shine Dance Fitness with my kids at the gym and at home, especially during winter months and the pandemic.”

– Stephanie Loux, Colorado mom of three.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and lives in Olathe with her family. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

I’M EXPECTING, BUT I DIDN’T EXPECT THIS!

Right off the bat, please know that I myself am not expecting. After four years of fertility treatments and a lot of curse words, I had my son in 2015 and called it a day. But that doesn’t mean I don’t remember with painstaking clarity how utterly wild pregnancy was. It’s seared into my mind for eternity, both good and bad. Allow me to share with you the truth about pregnancy that you will never, ever read in any book.

THE SURPRISE Hunger

There’s the running joke that when you’re pregnant you’re eating for two and, my friend, you will discover how accurate that is.

True story: In my third month of pregnancy I was en route to meet a friend for lunch and got so hungry I took a detour through McDonalds to scarf down an entire large order of french fries before finishing my entire meal at the lunch. Pregnancy hunger pangs will hit you harder than anything you’ve ever known before.

THE SURPRISE

Skin tags and moles

I told you we were going to get real. Your body is going through an onslaught of hormonal, emotional and chemical changes. Naturally, your body might start to grow things other than your child. So don’t panic if one day you wake up with a weird mole or random skin tag somewhere on your body. (And, girl, they can show up in some super strange places.) Just know this is normal and typically a harmless occurrence.

THE SURPRISE

Clifford the big pregnant rage monster

As I mentioned earlier, your hormone levels are on fire. Growing an entirely new human being is not a small task, and your body just isn’t sure what to do. Books on pregnancy will warn of mood swings, but I’m here to tell you that is hilariously understated. You will more likely experience “mood ragers” where nothing makes sense and you hate everyone for no reason but also love them so much you don’t even know what do with yourself.

THE SOLUTION Snacks

Your car, your purse, your partner’s pocket—bring snacks everywhere to keep the hangry feelings at bay. This is not the time to watch the scale unless your doctor recommends it. Eat a little, then eat some more. Rinse, lather, re-eat.

THE SOLUTION Patience

These inconvenient, fleshy friends will typically go away after your baby is born. If any of them are causing you concern due to abnormal discoloration or pain, you should speak to your doctor and set your mind at ease. Otherwise, there isn’t much to do but wait it out. Ah, the joys of motherhood.

THE SOLUTION

Breathe and share

These moments are great practice for impending contractions. When your emotions run high, practice taking deep yoga breaths, filling your entire diaphragm for five seconds, then releasing for five seconds. Repeat this 10 times or until your horns retreat back into your head and you begin to feel human. Important to note, the worst thing you can do is pretend none of this is happening. For centuries women have been masking the utter terror, anger, joy and elation they experience during pregnancy—and the world is no better for it. Share your turbulent emotions and euphoria with your partner and those around you. It might be difficult, but no one benefits from your taking on this journey alone.

THE SURPRISE Apathy

The expectation that every woman should view her pregnancy as a glorious gift to be continually grateful for is a load of bologna. Pregnancy is hard, and do not be alarmed if you feel little jubilation or happiness. The nesting time may never arrive. You might feel ugly and misunderstood and bloated and annoyed the entire time you are pregnant. Once again, there is no handbook to follow. All you can know for certain is your pregnancy will bring emotion on the spectrum, including plain old boredom with the entire situation.

THE SOLUTION

Accept all the feelings

Day to day, your priorities can reshuffle. One minute you may choose to focus on your work, your personal life and your passions. The next minute you may feel hyper focused on what types of bottles your baby will use. Remember that these feelings (or non-feelings) do not make you a bad person, nor do they indicate what type of mother you will become. Let the feelings arrive and cycle through, whatever they may be.

*If you think your feelings are becoming unmanageable or you begin to consider self-harm, please tell your doctor. There is no shame in getting help if you need it.

THE SURPRISE

The advice

Brace yourself. Once you announce your pregnancy, the Advice Train will exit the station and it will never, ever stop. Your parents, his Aunt Patricia and even Clyde in accounting down the hall will suddenly offer you baby and parenting advice you never asked for. These nuggets will be well intentioned. After all, people want to share their experiences, just as I am sharing mine with you now. But those pieces of advice may not be welcomed by you and your partner—and that is allowed.

THE SOLUTION Boundaries

You may as well learn this word now. The need for setting and maintaining boundaries will extend well past your pregnancy and into your child’s teen years and beyond. You need to decide how much you can and are willing to take. Do you even want advice? Do you care what others went through and what they recommend?

If the answer is no, practice speaking up. It can be as simple as stating, “I appreciate your wanting to help with daycare recommendations, but my partner and I have a great support system around us. If we need any help, I will definitely let you know!”

Leave it at that.

Other unexpected adventures pregnancy will bring you

Zero bladder control – Take it from me. Never leave a restaurant, grocery store or errand without using the restroom first.

The arrival of the “bump” – Some women start appearing pregnant after six weeks. Some never look like they are expecting. You may not ever “pop.” Also, who came up with these terms?

Sleep struggles – If you’re a back sleeper, get ready for some tough nights as you adjust to snoozing on your side. Consider buying a full-size body pillow. Game changer.

Swelling – Women retain water differently during pregnancy, so don’t freak out if you wake up one day and discover your ankles said goodbye. This is all temporary. Your ankles will return to you.

This is your and your partner’s baby and pregnancy. All of the choices and fears and stresses are laid at your feet. Believe me, once your baby arrives, the choices that you have start to get less and less prevalent. Your child will have a mind of his or her own that supersedes anything you planned. So truly take this time to do what you think is best for you. Judgment be damned. Take the road no one else in your family has taken. You are this child’s parent, and you must get comfortable in doing what works best for you and your family.

No one can take that from you unless you let them.

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

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

Conversation

Teaches

Children More Than You Know

Parents play a starring role in language development

It’s natural to go ga-ga over your newborn and that’s perfectly fine! The more you read to, sing to and talk to your baby, the more that little brain will absorb. Studies show children will have larger vocabularies and better grammar when you spend time simply using your voice.

As you go about your day, keep up the chatter. As you cook, explain what you are doing: “I am filling the pot with water to make your macaroni and cheese. Then I will turn on this oven, which you should not touch because it’s hot, to heat up your fish sticks!”

Play music and sing and dance as you do. When you talk to your child, you support her language development. Another helpful approach is to think about what you are saying from your infant’s or toddler’s point of view. How will your little one interpret your words?

Just for fun, imagine some guidance from your little one. If she could talk, she might say:

When I point to something, tell me what it is. While you are telling me, look at it and point to it too. Use a gesture along with the word you say, so that I can say it too. If you tell me it is time to eat, tap your lips. I can imitate the gesture and tell you when I’m hungry. (Many babies can learn sign language easily!)

Talk to me about what you are doing. Tell me what will happen next, so I will know what to expect. And talk to me about what I am doing. Using words to describe my actions and feelings helps me learn those words, too.

Take turns chatting back and forth with me. Listen to what I am saying—then imitate my coos or babbles. If I’m older, you can reply to my questions and ask your own. I like open-ended questions that don’t have right or wrong answers.

Model bigger and better sentences. If I say, “Two cat,” you can say, “You have two cats on your shirt!” I learn a lot from you.

Sing with me. It’s easier to learn words in songs.  I can learn about rhymes, the ABC song, the colors of my clothing and the names of my friends.

Take me to the library. Read me a book, let me decide how you do it and when we are done—even if we’re not at the end of the book. (Story times are a wonderful diversion, and many libraries have their schedules online.)

Let me mouth board books, handle them and decide which to explore. Check out the thrift store and buy me a few board books. Be sure to wipe them with a damp cloth. At home, attach felt tabs to them, and I will be able to turn the pages more easily, all by myself.

Make books about me. When I see myself in a book, I will learn that books can be about things in my life.

Show me the words on things. When you point out words in books and on containers, I begin to understand how printed and spoken words are connected.

Be playful while I learn. I like to ask you what shape the cookie cutter alphabet has made.

You can say, “You made the letter L,” or ask, “I wonder what letter you made?” It’s less fun to be asked, “What’s this?”

Give me time to learn and explore. There’s no rush to learn the names of colors, letters and objects. I will learn them in my own time.

When your child starts playing with other kids, you will be tempted to compare, but just keep working with words. My daughter had a little friend who was not as developed as she was,

and her mother actually kept her out of kindergarten a year so she could catch up. I felt bad about this, and we had a conversation about it. Her daughter was more of a doer, as in playing sports, riding horses and such. My daughter, who had a mother read to her, sing to her and give her books, was more of a thinking child. I recall when the new Harry Potter book came out, she had a slumber party and invited a group of friends over to read all night. They would call out when they were on a new chapter.

Reading is a lifelong joy, and you can instill that love early. You are the ultimate teacher for your child. Enjoy the ride!

Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.

The starting

point for a healthy smile.

Dr. John P. Roth, DDS Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry Specialist in Orthodontics

Dr. Hannah Loseke Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry

no more naps? no problem!

Within the mom community, naptime is sacred. How many of us have DO NOT DISTURB signs taped over the doorbells and nearly lose our minds when the dog barks during that blissful and long-awaited time? As a parent of four children myself, I can identify with this much-needed time— not only for me but for my children, as well. And although we can joke about this precious time, the truth is, naps are crucial for development and a necessary part of any baby and toddler’s day.

When you bring your new baby home, you’ll spend the first several weeks and months getting to know your baby and adjusting. However, around the 8- to 12-week mark, you may notice a rhythm to your baby’s sleep schedule settling in. Babies this age need approximately 14-17 hours of sleep, including three to four naps. If you are nowhere close to this, don’t panic! Make sure you are at least working toward establishing a positive nap routine for your baby by paying attention to cues, setting up the environment and maintaining consistency.

Kathleen, mom of three, says, “The key to nap time is learning your baby’s sleep cues. My husband and I took the ‘Taking Cara Babies’ newborn class and learned so much! Through the class we’ve learned to read our daughter’s sleep cues, so we can put her down for a nap before she gets overtired. This has been a game changer!”

By 6 months, your baby’s total daily sleep will be approximately 15 hours, including naps, which may have dropped down to three per day. Remember to continue working on a healthy nap routine for your baby. This could look like reading, singing and rocking, then laying baby down awake. Find what works for you and your baby! “I’m not a person that always has a consistent schedule, but with my son’s naps, I try to do it the exact same way. Plus, I make sure to keep it happy and light so he associates good things with sleep,” says Christine, mom of one.

Around 9 months, your baby should be fairly solid in his nap schedule and is likely down to two naps, a morning and an afternoon one. “Nap time is necessary for a baby or child’s health and development, and it also provides a break time for me to recharge and rest,” Lindsey, a mom of two says. “I protect that time for all of us in our house to help keep the routine, sleep and sanity.”

By 18 months (give or take), your baby will be down to taking just one nap, which is usually in the afternoon. Naps begin tapering off over the next few years, and the majority of children are done napping by age 5. Signs that your youngster is finished with naps could be trouble falling asleep at night or fighting the nap time altogether. Beware though—some children will fight it but still need it! Anna, a mom of two, laughs at her situation: “It’s not so much our son is transitioning out of naps, but fights them and then transitions to a nap in the hallway, on the kitchen bench or in the carpool line!”

As the old saying goes, “Sleep begets sleep.” Sometimes parents make the mistake of keeping babies up for longer, hoping for a nice, solid nap or night of sleep. The reality is, the more Baby sleeps, the better Baby will sleep. So, keep working toward establishing a routine and good sleep habits for your baby, and everyone will benefit!

Julie Collett is a mom of four and writes from Overland Park.

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IS IT TRUE LABOR…OR FALSE?

Your due date is near; your hospital bags are packed and ready. The contractions have begun, and at times, they take your breath away. While still bearable, they’re coming a lot more often and lasting much longer than before. Anxiety and excitement set in. Could this be it? Is it really time to head to the hospital? The chart below tells some of the differences between true labor and false.

FALSE LABOR TRUE LABOR

How often do the contractions occur?

Do they change with movement?

Often irregular and do not get closer together.

May stop when you walk or rest, or may even stop if you change positions.

Come at regular intervals and last about 60 seconds. As time goes on, they get closer together.

Continue despite movement or changing positions.

How strong are they?

Where do you feel the pain?

Usually weak and do not get much stronger. Or they may be strong at first and then get weaker.

Usually only felt in the front of the abdomen or pelvic region.

Steadily increase in strength.

Usually start in the lower back and move to the front of the abdomen.

namin g baby

t i pstomanage opinionatedfeedback

With the debate that erupts around naming babies, expectant parents may wonder: How much should popular trends and others’ opinions influence our decision? And how should we manage negative feedback for the name we choose?

Laura Wattenberg, author of The Baby Name Wizard, says parents should consider their objectives when choosing a name. You might select a name to honor a friend or family member or simply because it sings to your heart, regardless of current trends.

“On the other hand, if you see a name as a child’s calling card that will represent her to the broader world, you have to be willing to step outside of your personal taste and try to see it from other perspectives,” Wattenberg suggests.

How will the name you bestow impact your child down the road?

“It wouldn’t be fair to your child to choose a name that all of his future friends and family absolutely loathe,” Wattenberg says.

Although you rely on your friends and family for their honesty, advice and perspective, you get to make the final decision—and you may not be able to please everyone.

Keep your cool. If you hear negative feedback, stay calm and avoid getting defensive.

“Explain the history, the meaning to you, the love you have for a certain name,” says Sharon O’Neill, a marriage and family psychotherapist and author of A Short Guide to a Happy Marriage. “Then nicely explain that you understand that others may not see it as you do, but that you would ask that everyone be supportive. Anything less would never be good for any child to eventually feel.”

Consider concessions. Sue LeBreton says she made the mistake of sharing the girl’s name that she and her husband were considering with her motherin-law. “I loved the name Charlotte,” she said. But her mother-in-law clearly did not.

The couple chose a different girl’s name on their list, naming their daughter Abigail instead.

“What amuses me is that today Charlotte is one of my daughter’s favorite names for dolls!” LeBreton says.

Discuss conflicting cultural beliefs. Clashing cultural traditions can also fuel conflict when it comes to naming a baby. Madonna Chien says that her husband wanted to name their son after his father.

“My mother disapproved because, per Chinese tradition, it’s considered insulting to name your child after a family member.

However, we explained to my mother that my Chinese father-in-law understood the intent and was OK with it,” she says.

Suggest nicknames. Try appeasing a disappointed family member by offering an olive branch in the form of a nickname. “Grandparents or an aunt or other family members may have a nickname that they use in their special relationship with your child,” O’Neill says.

Give it time. Stacy Weiland also met resistance from her mother when she decided on her son’s name, which is Andrew.

“My mother wanted me to name him after my grandmother and grandfather. But I didn’t like them very much, so I didn’t want to name my child after them. My mother wouldn’t refer to my son by his name for about a month,” Weiland says.

Weiland gave her mother time to come around to her son’s name and advises other parents to do the same.

“This is your child. You are going through a lot of big changes and sleepless nights. No one has a right to demand a particular name and give you more stress,” she says.

Politely ignore. What do you do about strangers who disparage your child’s name?

Lisa Cash Hanson and her husband chose the name Matilda for their daughter because they felt it was unique. “It was something in my heart that she would be named Matilda and it stuck,” says Hanson, who is an author, business coach and founder of MompreneurMogul.com.

She was surprised when her daughter’s name didn’t ring well with others. Friends, family and even strangers made faces and said, “That’s too old-fashioned,” or “She is

going to get picked on in school,” and worse, “That name is ugly.”

“We’re seeing an epidemic of bad babyname manners,” Wattenberg says. “As names become more diverse and creative, there’s simply less agreement on what makes a good name. If someone is flat-out rude, chilly politeness and a change of subject is the best move.”

Hello ... My name is ____ . Many parents say the best strategy they’ve found to manage feedback is to say nothing at all or plead indecision and announce the baby’s name after the birth. At that point, the focus will be on your adorable baby, and her name may seem less up for debate.

Freelance writer Christa M. Hines is the mom of two boys, with perfectly suited names as far as she’s concerned. She resides with her family in Olathe.

Ways to prepare your child for a new sibling’s arrival

You’re pregnant for the second time. As before, you’re ecstatic—but a rush of concern floods over you. Unlike before, you now have to consider another child’s feelings. How can you possibly fully prepare your current child to become a big brother or sister?

Unfortunately, you can’t prepare for everything. However, there are many ways to help your child feel confident, prepared and secure when a new sibling arrives.

Involve them

Follow your child’s lead. Some children want to be totally involved in every step of preparation. Some don’t understand or aren’t old enough to grasp what’s happening. Both of these are okay! Let children be as involved as they want, but don’t force them to do or feel anything.

Involve your first-born in decisions. This helps them feel like they are a part of the process. Ask, “What do you think the

baby should wear in the hospital?” You also could include them in name conversations and countdowns. Have them help as much as they want. The soon-to-be big sib can participate in simple chores like washing and folding baby clothes or decorating the nursery to get ready for the new baby.

You know your child best. Invite them to join in preparations, then follow their lead with how much or how little they want to be involved.

Check in

You can usually tell how your child is doing emotionally. Even at such a young age. Check in with the new brother or sister often. Focus on casual and calm conversation. Use relaxed moments to talk to them about how they’re feeling, perhaps at dinner or other opportune times throughout the day. Make space for children to ask questions during your conversations now, as well as during pregnancy and when the new baby comes.

Preparation is key

Expose your child to babies beforehand, such as a friend’s sibling or cousin. Try not to make the first time they experience a young baby be when it’s in your arms at the hospital! Prepare them by saying things like, “The baby will cry a bit,” or “The baby can’t talk yet.” We know babies cry a lot, but a young child may not. Reiterate that, just like them, the baby needs to be taken care of by Mom and Dad.

You can also read plenty of books or watch special shows made to help children cope with such a large transition. Use tangible objects such as baby dolls or toys. Talk through new items in the home—or old ones you bring out of storage. You can share remembrances with your older child that, when they were a baby, they needed some of this gear to help them sleep, eat and sit, too! Also increase your older one’s independence in small tasks, such as putting shoes on, dressing or getting small items like wipes, diapers or their own

snacks. This will help everyone in the long run, especially when you are preoccupied with feeding or changing a new baby.

Most importantly, assure your child that you will love them regardless of the changes.

Create space

As home changes, help your older child understand what is going on. For example, you could say, “This is where the baby will sleep! You used to sleep in a crib when you were a baby.” Or “This is the baby’s cradle. This is where Baby can safely sleep while we are doing other things at home.”

You will have to create a physical space in your home for the new baby, but don’t forget to leave space for your older child as well. Create a small basket of specific activities they can do while you feed or change the baby. Spend one-on-one time with a soon-to-be big sibling. This helps them feel special and seen. Once the new baby comes and if you are able, go on separate outings with just your children. If possible, swap these outings with a second caretaker. For example, you stay home with the baby while your partner spends alone time with your older child doing something special. Take them on a special one-on-one date somewhere fun like Wonderscope Children’s Museum or Sea Life Aquarium.

Once the baby arrives, have safe drop zones for the baby to sleep or lie down—somewhere the big sibling can see the baby but where the infant is kept safe. Be sure to go over these drop zones with big brother or sister ahead of time so they are aware that this is the baby’s designated space. Allow the older sibling to be as involved as they would like, getting items for the baby or helping Mom or Dad with small tasks like feeding, diapering or dressing. However, don’t force participation if your older child would rather not be involved.

Maintain routine

Your older child will feel and see things changing. Before the new baby arrives, solidify routines that have already been in place. This is where they will feel most

comfortable. Clinging to familiar routines creates consistency, and consistency is what your child needs when it feels like so much is changing. Be sure those routines are solidly established ahead of time!

Ready or not

Some parents choose to have the new baby “give” a gift to their older sibling once they are born. You can take a special outing with your older to pick out a gift for the baby. This allows for a tangible gesture.

Before the baby is born, be sure to pack an overnight bag for the expectant sibling. This is something they can help with! Talk through the excitement of where they will stay, who they will stay with, and the

special time and preparation. Allow whoever is caring for your older child at home, such as a babysitter, friend or relative, to be involved with additional prep. Your child and the caretaker might want to decorate your home as they wait for the new baby to come home. They can even make Mom, Dad and Baby welcoming signs, cards or other special treats. Remember to include the big brother or sister in the celebration if they want to be. When the baby is born, if the hospital allows, the new sibling can visit the new baby. If this is prohibited, they can video call after the baby is born.

Adding an extra family member can feel overwhelming or stressful to everyone, but with a few extra preparations the transition can feel much smoother!

Kailyn Rhinehart writes from Warrensburg, MO. She lives with her husband and two small children and believes going from zero to one child was much more difficult than adding another.

Most importantly, assure your child that you will love them regardless of the changes.

Pregnancy Nutrition

Congratulations on your pregnancy! What an exciting and memorable journey you are embarking on! Your mind is already swirling with thoughts of names, birth plans, doctors, room decor, registering and so on. Nutrition during your pregnancy may very well get pushed to the bottom of the list because, let’s be honest, it’s not nearly as fun as some of the other stuff. Proper nutrition during your pregnancy is not only essential to your baby’s development, though, but also your continued health.

Perhaps you’re thinking you already eat “pretty good” or eat a wide variety of foods, so why do things need to change now that you are pregnant? Well for starters, you may hear people say you can eat for two, but this is actually a myth! The reality is you only need approximately 300 extra calories per day, so you need to make the most of those extra calories! Beefing up your fresh fruits, veggies and lean proteins will be a great way to make up those extra calories, while providing good nutrition for your growing baby. Some other nutrients you will need more of during pregnancy:

FOLIC ACID: Important for preventing birth defects and can also be found in citrus fruits, leafy green veggies and beans. You can also find folic acid in some fortified foods such as cereals and breads.

IRON: Because the volume of blood increases during pregnancy, so does the amount of iron your body needs. You need approximately two

times as much iron when you are pregnant than before. Though your prenatal vitamin will have iron in it, your doctor may decide it isn’t enough for you and ask you to take an iron supplement. There are several foods that can help, too. Increase your intake of leafy greens, meat, chicken and seafood, as well as beans and nuts or foods that say they are fortified with iron.

CALCIUM: Your baby needs calcium to develop strong bones and muscles, and if you don’t get enough, your body will take it from you to give it to your baby! This can lead to problems like osteoporosis later in life, so look for foods high in calcium like cheese, yogurt, edamame, almonds and kale.

VITAMIN D: According to WhatToExpect.com, “Vitamin D plays an equally important role (as calcium), as it’s what enables your body to absorb and hold onto that calcium and other minerals you and your developing baby need.” Eggs, salmon and products that are fortified with Vitamin D can help you get the amount you need, although you may still be asked to supplement too.

DHA: An omega-3 fatty acid, also known as docosahexaenoic acid, DHA is crucial for the development of your baby’s eyes and brain. Fatty seafood such as salmon, lobster, trout and shrimp are all great ways to boost your DHA intake, although beware of seafood like mackerel or swordfish, which contains high levels of mercury. Additionally, you can look for foods fortified with DHA.

WATER: Aids in digestion and helps nutrients circulate around your body, as well as helps form the amniotic fluid around the baby. Shawnee mom of three Alex Raine says, “Make sure to have a system for keeping track of how much water you are drinking, otherwise you won’t drink enough. Use an app, keep notes, get a marked drinking vessel … whatever it is … track it!”

Snacking can be an important way to help you achieve all these nutritional goals, and bonus, it may also help with nausea! Plan to always carry healthy, nutritious snacks with you throughout your pregnancy. Some great items are fresh fruit paired with string cheese, fresh veggies with hummus, DIY trail mix, fresh fruit mixed with yogurt, cottage cheese with cucumber and tomato, avocado on toast, or unsweetened applesauce with a handful of nuts.

You might be feeling concerned about how to meet the nutritional needs necessary for your developing baby if you have certain dietary restrictions yourself, such as gluten or dairy. Abigail Mott, Overland Park mom of two, shares her experience. “I was diagnosed with celiac disease two years before we had our baby. I worried about my own long-term health concerns if I couldn’t maintain a strict gluten free diet, and then had new mom worries whether my choices were safe for my baby too,” she says. “My two saving graces were fruits and veggies, and using my resources. Meal prep was game changing for me. Having those healthy snacks ready to eat when the hunger strikes was imperative to not deviating from my gluten free lifestyle. I spent an hour or two a week prepping snacks and meals … my fridge looked so full and beautiful! I

also tapped into my resources—local and free dietitians, social media groups and pages, and support groups on how to use ingredients in a new way to avoid burnout.”

Don’t be surprised if your doctor or midwife wants you to take additional supplements in addition to your prenatal vitamins, but bear in mind this doesn’t excuse you from continuing to eat a healthy, balanced diet! It may feel like just one more thing to remember, but giving your baby the absolute best start in life is something we all can get behind!

Julie Collett writes from her house in Overland Park and finds some of these tips helpful now, even though she isn’t pregnant!

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

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Being hungry is okay! But make what you eat matter!

• When people ask what they can bring after the baby comes, tell them something that includes fruits and vegetables. Don’t discount asking for snacks instead of meals either.

• Hone in on what you are craving and make sure you have it in the house. Don’t be afraid to submit to a craving ... you are growing a human! You deserve a treat. Let yourself have a bit of what you want for some healthy indulgence so you don’t go overboard.

• If you have what you want easily accessible, you will be able to save time and extra calories from going out to pick things up.

New Baby Bootcamp Taking Care of a Newborn

Congratulations on becoming a parent! Whether it’s your first baby or not, bringing a newborn home is always a big deal. This article is going to give you a look at what the first few weeks of caring for a newborn entail, so you can prepare or use as a reference while you’re in the midst of it all.

FEEDING

Babies eat every two or so hours, but I was not prepared for just how long it takes a baby to complete a feeding session. Babies are sleepy and sometimes need some urging to wake up and eat so they can grow at a healthy pace. This means that feeding a newborn can take around 45 minutes! So when they need to eat every couple of hours, that doesn’t leave a lot of time for much else during your day. It’s helpful to have a designated spot to feed Baby that has things for you, as well, such as a large water bottle, a snack and maybe book to occupy your time.

As for how to feed your baby, you get to decide which option will be best for you and your newborn. I did breastfeed all three of my babies for about a year each, and it was a wonderful experience even though with two of them things started off a little rocky. I think it may be more mainstream now to hear that breastfeeding isn’t always easy and that if you want to breastfeed you may have to work at it for a while. My first baby was a little early, so I will give her that excuse, but she used a nipple shield for the first month until we figured it out. She also used a syringe finger feeding method for the first few days because that was the only way she would consume any milk. That meant that I would pump and my husband would help feed. She did have a few bottles of breastmilk too while we were both figuring out how to breastfeed, but after a month (which seems like an eternity with a newborn and sleep deprivation) we mastered it and it was one of my favorite times with her. When my second baby was born, I remember crying happy tears when he latched and fed immediately, and we never had any issues. But then my third was more like his sister and needed the nipple shield for a while, too, until he figured things out.

I enjoyed breastfeeding for a number of reasons. It was convenient for me as a stay-at-home-mom—I could nurse wherever and whenever. It also was free, was healthy and made specifically for them. I also loved that bonding time with

my babies. However, it was challenging at the beginning, as I mentioned, and I was the only one who could feed my babies— breastfeeding moms are pretty tethered to their baby for better or worse. My husband and the grandparents would rarely be able to feed our babies bottles because they weren’t used to them. Although a bit inconvenient sometimes, this didn’t become a major issue for our family because I was home with them the majority of the time. But when you are away from your baby, you still have to pump to release your milk and keep up your supply. There is also the option to pump your breastmilk but feed only by bottle, something many working moms choose to do. Many even pump during the day and nurse when they’re home.

If formula sounds more appealing or breastfeeding isn’t in the cards for you, you’ll discover the many pros to bottle feeding. Anyone can feed the baby, for one. That means more bonding time with other family members and caregivers and more freedom for you. Your body also returns to you sooner, and you don’t have to worry about pumping to keep up your milk supply.

SLEEPING

Newborns actually sleep a lot. I realized this more after my second and third babies came home because, by then, I had other little kids running around and not sleeping as often.

There’s the old saying, “Sleep when the baby sleeps,” which can be helpful advice when you’re a new mom and aren’t able to sleep through the night like you once did. But consider, too, the funny memes saying, “Clean when the baby cleans.” After all, when are you supposed to accomplish anything else that needs to be done if you’re always sleeping when the baby sleeps? Sometimes it’s very rewarding to shower, eat, clean or do something else when the baby is napping. Accomplishing some other things can really boost your mood.

As for how your baby should sleep, according to the “1-Week Handout” by Premier Pediatrics, “Recent research indicates that placing your infant on the back decreases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, so discuss this with your doctor. It is best for infants to sleep on a firm mattress. A pillow should not be used because your infant may not be able to lift his/her head up and out of it, which could result in suffocation. If you go about your daily business as usual, your child will

become accustomed to sleeping with household sounds.” This means Baby will get used to sleeping while you vacuum or play with older children.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, newborns should get 14–17 hours of sleep over a 24-hour period. Some newborns may sleep up to 18–19 hours a day.

Now, if you’re bringing home a baby brother or sister, that means though you may need to sleep when the baby sleeps, sometimes that’s a big challenge because you have another child to care for. I remember trying to plan for a nap after welcoming our third baby home. I had prepped my older kids (ages 3 and almost 5 at the time) and gotten us all situated on the couch for them to watch a movie quietly while I tried to nap while the baby was napping. I had my ear plugs and eye mask and was just about to drift off when my husband came up early that day and derailed my whole plan. And when you’re sleep deprived, things like this feel like such a disaster! But once Baby gets on a more regular schedule, it can be done. I felt like such a rock star when I was able to put all three of my kids down for a nap at the same time so I could either catch up on some sleep, get some things checked off my to-do list or just have a moment to myself.

CRYING

Newborns communicate their needs through crying. And generally anticipating and checking that their needs are met will help ease most crying. Are they hungry? Do they need a diaper change?

Are they cold or hot? Are they uncomfortable? Sometimes, though, colic is to blame. According to HopkinsMedicine.org, “Colic is when a healthy baby cries for a very long time, for no obvious reason. It is most common during the first 6 weeks of life. It

usually goes away on its own by age 3 to 4 months. Up to 1 in 4 newborn babies may have it.” As far as figuring out whether your baby’s crying is considered colicky, MayoClinic.org says, “The range for what’s considered typical crying is difficult to pin down. In general, colic is defined as crying for three or more hours a day, three or more days a week, for three or more weeks.” If you suspect your baby has colic, call your pediatrician for tips and be sure to have the support you need to safely care for your infant during this time.

I know this sounds like a lot, but trust your new parent gut, do the best you can, and seek help when you need to. There are many support groups out there just to help you succeed on your new parent journey. Welcome to the club and enjoy!

BATHING

Because newborns sleep a lot, they don’t require frequent bathing. Babies can get by with about three baths a week as long as they are properly cleaned after diaper changes between baths. It’s also important to thoroughly clean their umbilical cord and circumcision (if they had one) sites as well. Your pediatrician will advise you on specifics.

According to MayoClinic.org, “A baby’s umbilical cord stump dries out and eventually falls off—usually within one to three weeks after birth. Keep the stump dry. Parents were once instructed to swab the stump with rubbing alcohol after every diaper change. Researchers now say this might kill bacteria that can help the cord dry and separate. Instead, expose the stump

to air to help dry out the base. Keep the front of your baby’s diaper folded down to avoid covering the stump. Stick with sponge baths. While there’s no harm in getting the stump wet, sponge baths might make it easier to keep the stump dry. Let the stump fall off on its own. Resist the temptation to pull off the stump yourself.”

As far as a circumcision site, it’s also important to keep the area clean and dry to avoid infection, but your doctor will instruct and give you handouts on proper care, depending on which type of procedure was done. Just more things to think of when you’re sleep deprived and bathing your baby!

Bath time can be a great way to start introducing a bedtime routine for both you and your baby, even if newborns do keep their own unique schedule for the first few weeks. It signals the end of the day, and even if you aren’t bathing Baby every day, a bedtime routine can be a time to moisturize the baby each night and get her changed into pajamas to begin the nighttime shift.

CHANGING

Babies pee and poop a lot. Like, a lot a lot. That’s why seasoned parents will gift you boxes and boxes of diapers. You will go through them at an alarming rate. One thing to note is that some diapers will be better for your baby than others, so be sure to keep packaging intact on those diaper boxes until you’re sure they will be a good fit for your baby. Some brands of diapers tend to irritate a baby’s sensitive skin more than others, and some seem to prevent leaks better than others depending on your baby and how you change him. Some are just cheaper, and you happen to have a coupon! I also was a brave soul who used cloth diapers some of the time, too. I highly suggest visiting a friend to see what cloth diapering entails in real life before purchasing any. You also could start with a small supply to see whether it’s going to be a workable option for your family life.

Even though I cloth-diapered, I began with disposable diapers for my newborn because brand new babies need so many diaper

changes and I couldn’t keep up with cloth. In those early days, many cloth diapers were too big for my small newborns anyway. If you do choose to use cloth diapers, find a support group online to help guide you in all the supplies you will need to succeed.

In the first year, you’ll change approximately 2,500 to 3,000 diapers! That’s a lot of diaper changing!

Also, if you have more than one story in your home, I strongly suggest a second changing station, set up either with a Pack and Play or just a box of supplies on the living room floor, so you can change Baby in a couple different places. This is especially helpful if you’re recovering from a C-section or have other children to keep an eye on. Baby changing supplies include a changing pad and cover, diapers, wipes, a change of clothes (or at least a new onesie), diaper cream, Vaseline, nasal aspirator, baby fingernail clippers and toys to distract older babies.

Stephanie Loux is the mother of Layla, 12, Mason, 10, and Slade, 7, and even though the newborn days are behind her and she knows how much of a bootcamp it really was, she wishes to hop back in time for a little reminder of how sweet a time it was. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

WE LOVE IT!

By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards

CLAIRE THE KOALA

I SEE ME LION MIRROR

DITTY BIRD FIRST 100 WORDS INTERACTIVE BOOK

Help build early language ability and fine motor skills with this new interactive musical sound book. Features repeating words, imitating sounds and singing nursery rhymes to support children’s language learning. $19.49, ages 1-4, DittyBird.com

Features an adorable mint romper with a stunning eyelet ruffle and crocheted scalloped cuffs, playful bows and fuzzy ears handcrafted with special yarn. Each doll provides 10 meals to children in need. Every doll is handmade with love by artisans in Peru and Nepal using natural, premium cotton yarn. $86, ages birth+, CuddleAndKind.com

DINGLE DANGLE

Keep the giggles coming with this adorable and innovative three-in-one toy. Can be used during diaper changes, as a portable mobile for a crib or stroller and a sensory rattle. $39.99, ages birth-18 months, DingleDangleBaby.com

Help build positive selfawareness with this interactive mirror. The light-up heart plays loving phrases while giving little ones a chance to develop fine motor skills with buttonpressing. $9.97, ages 12-36 months, Amazon.com

ORBIT LABELS

2.0

Personalized, reusable labels for baby bottles and sippy cups. Stay organized and prevent the spread of germs. Dishwasher-safe and can move from baby bottle to sippy cup to water bottle. $14.95, ages 3 months+, InchBug.com

LITTLE WONDERS POP-A-TUNE

Classic play—reimagined. Features fun sounds and experiences. Change from classic piano to silly sounds with the push of a button and watch the ball float into the air. $39.99, ages 12 months+, PlayMonster.com

PEEK-A-BOO CONVERTIBLE HOBO BACKPACK

Go from a hobo shoulder bag to a crossbody to a backpack with just a few adjustments. It can even be hung from a stroller—or on top of a luggage handle. Stylish and versatile. $165, TwelveLittle.com

MAXI-COSI SWIFT PLAY YARD

A multi-use, stylish three-inone travel play yard that can be used as a newborn bassinet, toddler sleep space and safe, sturdy play yard, from newborn to toddler. Lightweight and easy to fold for travel. $274.99, birth-24 months, MaxiCosi.com

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wonderful winter outings

WITH TINY TOTS IN KC

the weather outside is frightful, and the snow isn’t so delightful. Memories of snowmen and sledding seem magical and nostalgic, but reality is often something quite different if you’re home with little children confronting cold and snow. Entertaining small children to keep cabin fever at bay is a challenge. Fortunately, many family-friendly venues in Kansas City offer options where you can enjoy a day of learning, exercising and beating the winter blahs!

Cultivate a Love of Learning

Young children learn best when the opportunities are handson and engaging.

Science City at Union Station Science City is Kansas City’s largest, most interactive science museum with something for visitors of all ages. Little ones especially love three experiential, hands-on exhibitions designed with them in mind. The “Let’s Play!” exhibit is designed especially for babies, crawlers, toddlers and their caregivers and features activities designed for developmental needs with multiple sensory and role-playing activities. “Creative Corner” is an exhibit where art meets science in a whole new way with cool interactive activities encouraging kids to explore, paint on glass and interact with sand and light tables to engage senses and stimulate minds. And “All Aboard” celebrates Union Station’s rail history, allowing families to discover how steam engines work as they play and explore throughout the exhibit that encourages problemsolving and creativity. UnionStation.org

KidScape at the Johnson County Museum This whimsical destination is a hands-on, child-sized city. Children time travel to different periods and communities from the region’s past. They enjoy pretend play as they work on the farm, perform at the theater or the puppet show, teach in the school, deliver the mail, care for patients at the hospital and fry up some burgers at the diner. This exhibit is a favorite for early education. JoCoMuseum.org

Legoland Discovery Center Legoland Discovery Center Kansas City offers a fun, highly interactive and educational two- to three-hour indoor experience. Based on the everpopular Lego brick, Legoland Discovery Center provides a range of interactive play areas. The Train Station Adventure is where children climb, slide, jump and roll around train obstacles. Lego 4D cinema features exciting Lego movies with additional wind, rain and snow effects to really bring the film to life, and Duplo Village lets little ones build a colorful Duplo flower for the garden, or wiggle and slide around the cottage and play with the special big, soft bricks. Families also enjoy the Kingdom Quest and Merlin’s Apprentice rides; Miniland, an interactive Lego replica of Kansas City’s most famous landmarks; and a variety of Lego play spaces. LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

We often think of petting zoos and parks as summer outings, but many venues offer indoor animal exhibits—and the cold months, generally less crowded, can be a perfect time to visit.

The Kansas City Zoo The zoo is open year-round. In fact, winter is one of the best times to visit, as the animals are especially playful, and the zoo isn’t crowded. The indoor exhibits at the Polar Bear Passage, Helzberg Penguin Plaza, Tropics and Discovery Barn are great on chilly days. Bonus: Weather permitting, enjoy a ride on the carousel or train for more fun. KansasCityZoo.org

Nature Centers Kansas City is home to many wonderful nature centers, but these are some of our favorites: Burr Oak Woods (MDC.mo.gov) is one of our favorite outings on a cold afternoon. You’ll meet an animatronic Smokey Bear teaching children fire safety and see a large aquarium of Missouri’s freshwater fish, as well as displays of snakes, turtles, toads and more. Lakeside Nature Center (LakesideNatureCenter.org) is home to some of the best animal displays in the area, with falcons, owls, eagles, toads, frogs, fish, insects and wonderful exhibits on the animals in our city and in our homes. Lastly, Prairie Park Nature Center (LawrenceKS.org) showcases reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals, as well as a hands-on center for preschoolers that features nature puppets, puzzles and activities.

Get the Wiggles Out

Children need to exercise and play, but that can be tough when it’s too cold for the backyard swing set. Consider a day of swimming or indoor play!

Jump! Jump! Jump! Trampolines, toddler play areas and obstacle courses are perfect ways to burn off energy and get exercise, and Urban Air Trampoline Park (UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com) is one of our favorite places to play! With giant tubes playgrounds, ropes courses, a Sky Rider, virtual reality and a bevy of trampoline spaces, this is a great place for little ones and older siblings and friends as well!

Go for a Swim Kansas City boasts dozens of terrific indoor pools, from lap pools to full indoor water parks complete with slides, lazy rivers and more. Best of all, many offer terrific toddler areas, and you don’t have to worry about big crowds if you swim while school is in session. Our three favorite inexpensive but fun-filled options are Lenexa Rec Center (913.477.7529), Legacy Park Community Center in Lee’s Summit (816.969.1550) and the High Blue Wellness Center in Belton (816.348.7400).

Fun for Adults, Too.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Spend an hour exploring the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art with little ones in strollers. For toddlers, bring a copy of our Nelson-Atkins Scavenger Hunt, found on KCParent.com. Nelson-Atkins.org

Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens

For TONS more great places to visit with tiny tots, visit the Going Places Guide at KCParent.com!

The 300-acre Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens turns into a winter wonderland perfect for an outdoor stroll or hike if you love crisp winter air and nature. On weekends during the holiday season, make it a family tradition to attend the annual luminary walk. OPKansas.org

Kristina Light loves winter with her girls. They are often out and about at local museums, libraries and play places.

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

DAILY

Story Time Visit MyMCPL.org or JoCoLibrary.org to find a complete list of story times.

Penguin Exhibit 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. The zoo is open year-round, and this is the best time to visit the penguins and polar bears! KansasCityZoo.org

Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Bring the kids to see the Doodle Reef, the touch pool, Stingray Bay and more! VisitSeaLife.com

Visit Legoland 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Take the kids to the ultimate indoor playground for the biggest fans of Lego. LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com.

MONDAY

Gym for Me Mon & Wed (Lenexa Community Center), Tue (Lenexa Rec Center), 9:00. A place for little ones to run, ride and play. Play items available including riding toys, inflatables and balls. Lenexa.com/preschool

playdates

WEEKLY

Mom or Dad & Me Bumper Bowling Mon & Wed, 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink. SummitLanes.com

Open Gym Mon-Thu, 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church (Lenexa). Grab a coffee from the coffeeshop while kiddos get their energy out on cold days! KawPrairie.org/info

TUESDAY

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Merriam Community Center. Drive, pull or push your favorite Little Tikes vehicles. Parents must supervise their children.

Toddler Time Mon & Thu, 10:00, Ceramic Café. Toddlers 5 and under can paint a selected item for only $12! CeramicCafeKC.com

Pay for Play Tue & Thu, 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at our amazing outdoor showroom. BackyardSpecialists.com

Tots on Tuesday 10:30, Kemper Museum. Sing songs, read books, explore art and make your own art with a Kemper Museum educator and a Kansas City librarian. KemperArt.org

WEDNESDAY

Preschool Story Time First and third Wed, 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Visit the nature center for stories, songs and surprises geared to preschool children. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Retro Story Time Second Wednesday of the month, 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Preschoolers enjoy stories from long ago read by a special guest. Craft activity included. Pre-reg at 913.831.3359.

SATURDAY

Little Acorns 10:00, Anita Gorman Discovery Center. Join volunteer naturalists for a fantastic journey through forests, streams and other magical places as they read select books. Pre-reg at 816.759.7300.

Crown Center Ice Terrace

parents night out

Winterlude – Bobby Watson Quartet Jan. 15, Midwest Trust Center. For more than three decades, Watson has contributed consistently intelligent, sensitive and wellthought-out music to the modern-day jazz lexicon. JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center

Restaurant Week 2023 Jan. 13-23, various locations. Special multi-course menus delight as you to dine out and do good. Enjoy hundreds of the hottest and most delicious restaurants in KC. KCRestaurantWeek.com

Come Blow Your Horn starring Hal Linden and Sally Struthers Thru Feb. 5, the New Theatre. Rarely do you get the opportunity to see two timeless, legendary television icons on stage, in person in a classic stage comedy. NewTheatre.com

Lucy Loves Desi: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Sitcom Feb. 11, Midwest Trust Center. Lucille Ball paved the way for many of today’s top comediennes, while forcing Hollywood to deal with the rising power and influence of women artists. JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center

Winter Jam March 3, T-Mobile Center. Winter Jam Tour hosted by NewSong, Christian music’s biggest tour, is returning with headliners We the Kingdom and Jeremy Camp. 2023.JamTour.com

Murder on the Orient Express March 17–April 2, Olathe Civic Theatre. Ken Ludwig’s clever adaptation of the Agatha Christie classic boasts all the glamour, intrigue and suspense of Dame Agatha’s celebrated novel, with a healthy dose of humor to quicken the pace. OlatheTheatre.org

Crown Center Ice Terrace Thru March 4, Crown Center. Kansas City’s original public outdoor ice-skating rink celebrates its 50th season of great skating fun. Enjoy public skating seven days a week. CrownCenter.com/iceterrace

Chicken N Pickle Overland Park

Offering the most affordable daytime skate rates in town, Chicken N Pickle offers fun on their ice pond all season long. Chicken N Pickle is the place to gather on game day, too. ChickenNPickle.com/overland-park/ ice-pond

I left the remote for the TV in the freezer. Three times.

– Kristen

bellylaughs

We asked our 54,000+ Facebook fans:

pregnancy brain?

Rebecca: I put a gallon of milk in the microwave!

Tammy: I paid for my groceries and then proceeded to walk out of the store without any of my bags.

Laura: I tried to unlock my house with my car key clicker. Didn’t work.

Mary: I packed my son’s lunch in the morning, just like I always do. When he got home he reported his sandwich was just two pieces of bread.

Susan: I asked the cashier how much a $50 gift card would cost to buy.

Kristen: I left the remote for the TV in the freezer. Three times.

Meghan: I was filling out forms at the doctor’s office and couldn’t remember how old I was. I had to call my mom and ask.

Karen: I was cooking eggs and couldn’t figure out why nothing was happening. I stared at raw eggs for a good five minutes before I realized the stove wasn’t on.

Phoebe: I put hand soap in the dishwasher. LOTS of bubbles!

Tracey: Walked into the bathroom. Forgot why I was in the bathroom. Went back to watch TV and then realized I had to go to the bathroom!

Kate: I was convinced “of” was spelled “ov.”

What is the craziest thing you or your spouse has ever done while suffering from

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