KC Baby Fall 2013

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the

importance of

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a tantrum before it starts dealing with pregnancy

pain

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MidwestCareForBabies.com Call 877-76-WOMEN for a referral to a women’s care specialist. kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

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NICU issue OCT-DEC 2013 IN EVERY ISSUE 11 20 22 23 27 30 34

Baby Bytes Our Baby Story Real Mom Reviews Nesting Nugget Blog Bits Calendar of Events Belly Laughs

BONDING WITH BABY IN NICU, PG. 16

YOUR PREGNANCY

YOUR BABY

YOUR TODDLER

10 When Pregnancy Is a Pain

12 What Babies Need to Thrive

11 Fertility Apps

15 Baby Steps: Buying Shoes

14 Safety Checklist

16 Bonding with NICU Baby

28 Sanity Savers for New Moms

24 5 Fall Faves with Tots

20 Starved for Sleep

32 Parents’ Night Out

30 Playdates

8 Stop a Tantrum

22 Real Mom Reviews 23 Importance of Folic Acid 27 Got Cravings?

34 Belly Laughs

ON THE COVER

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Stop a Tantrum Before It Starts Dealing with Pregnancy Pain The Importance of NICU 5 Fall Faves for Tots Sanity Savers for New Moms

8 10 16 24 28

Where you find family, you will find us.

the

importance of

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pain

Our cover features Molly from Olathe. Cover photos by KiaBondurant.com.

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5 fallforfaves tots sanity savers

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editor’sletter OCT-DEC 2013

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Lauren Goldman Lauren@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Lynn Hawkins Advertising@KCParent.com

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our blood pressure rises. Your voice goes up a few octaves. You begin to sweat. Ah, is there anything like a toddler tantrum? It evokes such strong feelings in even the calmest of parents. In fact, my mom likes to tell the story of a doozy of a tantrum I pulled as a child. I was near 2, and my mom and I were at the mall.

She was very pregnant with baby #2, and it was difficult for her to lift and carry me. We had finished shopping and it was time to leave. Only I decided that I wanted to stay at the mall. Each time my mom attempted to leave, the tantrum began. Being pregnant, she was unable to contain my kicking and screaming self and get me out of the mall. So we walked. And we walked. And we walked.

In all, what should have taken a few minutes ended up taking a few hours.

The best way to stop a tantrum? Nip it in the bud before it starts. While there is no full-proof way to keep a tantrum from happening, Kansas City mom Jennifer Bosse provides some great tips and suggestions on how to try to stop a tantrum before it begins on pg. 8.

Going through labor and giving birth is stressful.

Throw in issues with your baby once he or she is born and it becomes a lot to deal with. We are fortunate to have some terrific NICUs in the Kansas City area to help families when their baby needs some extra care. In our NICU issue, Belton mom Tisha Foley lists 10 important ways for parents to bond with their baby during time in the NICU.

Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Proofreader Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Jennifer Bosse, Kansas City Julie Collett, Overland Park Adrienne Doring, Prairie Village Tisha Foley, Belton Marisa Frymire, Overland Park Lauren Greenlee, Olathe Annette Griffith, Kansas City Jessica Heine, Olathe Gina Klein, Kansas City Kristina Light, Kansas City Julie McKinley, Lee’s Summit

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Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax Find us on Facebook: Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Follow us on Twitter: @KCParent Member of

Enjoy the beauty of fall in KC with your little ones!

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

Margaret Sarver, Editor

Kansas City Baby is published four times per year: Winter (JanMarch), Spring (April-June), Summer (July-Sept) and Fall (OctDec). 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. Kansas City Baby is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. All photography and letters sent to Kansas City Baby will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially.

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As the area’s leader in high-risk maternity services, the new Shawnee Mission Medical Center (SMMC) can now care for more babies who require extra medical and nursing attention. Our Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) features private, single-family rooms for mothers and their babies. And you can rest even easier knowing neonatologists and neonatal nurse practitioners from Children’s Mercy Hospital are on duty in our NICU 24/7.

To plan your birth experience or to find an OB/GYN who delivers at SMMC, visit ShawneeMission.org/BirthCenter or call us at 913-676-2300.

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

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how to stop a

tantrum

before it starts

“I tell her, ‘I understand that you feel angry because you didn’t get the toy that you wanted. It is okay to feel angry.’”

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

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t is a typical Tuesday morning. The kids and I are perusing the aisles at Target. We walk through the dairy aisle, and Landon notices the chocolate milk cooler. He points to it and says, “I want that Mama.” I tell him no and proceed to the next aisle, but it is too late. He pleads.

He tries to climb out of the cart. He yells, “I want chocolate milk,” repeatedly, while I hurry to finish my shopping. My continuous “no’s” only serve to make him angrier. Then, he starts to wail. Thus begins a meltdown.

We’ve all been subjected to a temper tantrum at one time or another.

How a tantrum is handled, however, differs greatly based on a parent’s particular teachings or strategy. Some remain firm, unyielding in the face of an angry child’s demands. Others buckle, afraid of the public’s reaction to the outburst. Some will barter, plead, distract or threaten just to get their children to calm down.

While each of these techniques may work

temporarily, they do not produce positive results long-term.

According to KidsHealth.org, temper tantrums begin between the ages of 1 and 3 years old. This is when children begin to practice their developmental skills. (e.g., walking, talking, etc.) “Toddlers want a sense of independence and control over the environment—more than they may be capable of handling. This creates the perfect condition for power struggles as a child thinks, ‘I can do it myself’ or ‘I want it; give it to me.’ When kids discover that they can’t do it and can’t have everything they want, the stage is set for a tantrum,” says the site.

Kansas City mom Tiffany Moppin says that she uses validation to calm her toddler during a temper tantrum. “I tell her, ‘I understand that you feel angry because you didn’t get the toy that you wanted. It is okay to feel angry.’”

Body language expert Blanca Cobb teaches the C.A.L.M. method in her coaching program with parents:

My toddler’s pediatrician gave me some pointers on avoiding tantrums.

The most effective ways are: 1. Assess the child’s basic needs.

Is he or she hungry? Tired? Bored?

If basic needs haven’t been met, children are prone to become frustrated or restless in situations where they normally wouldn’t.

2. Does he or she want attention?

Have you been working on another task or giving a sibling your full attention? This could result in an outburst. To a child, any attention is better than no attention when feelings of being ignored surface.

3. Are you allowing your child to make small decisions throughout the day? If he or she is not provided room to make some choices, a power struggle will most likely ensue.

4. Are the tasks that your child is working on age appropriate? If not, this may also contribute to negative feelings and frustration for your little one.

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lose your lips. Parents should stop talking and “listen with their eyes.” Observe the child’s facial expressions and tone of voice. This will help to distinguish between fear, sadness, confusion and anger. “Many times parents want to stop the tantrum as soon as it starts without addressing the underlying emotions of the tantrum,” Cobb says.

A L M

cknowledge your toddler’s feelings. Tantrums often escalate because a toddler feels misunderstood.

ower yourself to their level.

“Parents should get down on their toddler’s level by kneeling or sitting. When parents sit down on the floor or kneel next to their toddlers, it’s comforting to them.” aintain control of yourself.

“The adage ‘parents lead by example’ holds true when managing temper

tantrums. Although composure can be a struggle, parents should have relaxed shoulders, hands and facial expressions.

Their arms should remain relaxed by their sides. When talking to their toddlers, their hands should be open with palms facing up, which conveys openness and sincerity. To show that they’re listening, parents should tilt their heads and nod occasionally. If toddlers sense their parents’ stress, they’ll respond in a similarly stressful manner. The more calm the parents, the more calm the children.”

Awareness of your child’s needs and limitations are key in working through challenges. Setting the stage for proper communication now will make all the difference in your child’s future.

Jennifer Bosse is a freelance writer and photographer. She lives in Kansas City, KS, with her husband and two sons.

(Source: KidsHealth.org/Parent/ Emotions/Behavior/Tantrums.html)

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

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when pregnancy is a pain in the neck … and other places

We asked KCParent.com readers, what caused you the most pain while expecting?

50% Everything! I hurt all over.

33% My back was sore all the time.

17% The swollen ankles.

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

ot baby (in belly)? If so, congratulations! Pregnancy is truly a joy in its own way for every mother. It brings with it all sorts of ups and downs throughout each trimester. That’s right; there are downs.

It’s not just about the cute, round belly and fashionable maternity clothes.

Pregnancy can be a pain—literally.

“You experience a whole new kind of tired, and many new pains as your body gets used to being pregnant,” Kansas City mom Anne Miller says.

Feeling a little queasy lately?

Studies have shown that morning sickness affects more than half of all pregnant women. Some things you can try include eating frequent, small meals instead of three big meals.

Eat a lot of protein and complex carbohydrates, and avoid too many sweets and fatty foods. Drinking plenty of fluids is also important, as well as eating your fruits and veggies and getting enough sleep and physical activity.

Ginger, as studies have shown, may help relieve nausea symptoms.

Try sipping cold ginger ale, warm ginger tea, or adding a slice of raw ginger to water to soothe your stomach. Snacks such as gingerbread or ginger cookies can also help prevent nausea.

Do certain odors make you uneasy? Because morning sickness can be smell-based, it can help to sniff fresh scents, such as rosemary or lemon extract. Fresh rosemary is a very effective scent for morning sickness, so you might want to keep some handy!

Are you experiencing pain in your upper or lower back? If so, you’re not alone. Lugging around a larger uterus (which can expand up to 1,000 times its prepregnancy size) plus carrying those extra pounds can really throw your body off balance. This change in posture can put strain on your back. To remedy the discomfort, use a heating pad, hot water bottle, or soak in a warm tub to help soothe muscles. Also, doctors recommend that you try to keep your weight gain within the recommended range (2535 pounds), and if you’re still sporting your high heels, put them away (and flat shoes, too)! Instead, bring out the comfy shoes with good arch support, and avoid heavy lifting.

“I suffered a pinched nerve in my lower back during my third

pregnancy,” Independence mom Brice Zuba says. “It got so bad at one point that I wouldn’t even leave the house. I went to a chiropractor and a massage therapist several times, but nothing helped. What helped was childbirth. After I had my baby girl, it went away.”

Heartburn is another infamous woe of pregnancy and one that Miller says she most definitely suffered with.

“Having heartburn can be miserable. I carefully watched the foods I ate and made sure I didn’t overeat or eat within a couple hours of bedtime,” she says.

If you’ve been feeling the burn, avoid heavy meals and steer clear of spicy, greasy, sugary and acidic foods.

Instead, stick to a bland, high-fiber diet and drink lots of fluids. You should also avoid eating right before bedtime or lying down immediately following a meal.

Pregnancy also brings with it swelling in the hands or ankles, especially in the last trimester. The remedy?

Childbirth. Swelling typically goes down two weeks postpartum.

Another common nuisance is painful leg cramps, especially at night. To soothe the pain, stretch. Straighten your leg and slowly flex your ankle and toes upwards while massaging your calf.You can also try soaking your leg in hot water or using a heating pad.

“For sore, restless legs, I made it a point to stretch at least two times a day, especially before bed,” Miller says.

Varicose veins can also wreak havoc, and not only in your legs.

“When I was about 3 to 4 months pregnant, I had vulvar varicose veins.

It was very painful,” Zuba says. “I tried different remedies to put pressure on the area, but nothing worked. I couldn’t stand for long periods of time or I’d feel like passing out. The doctors told me to rest and put my feet up. It went away after my baby was born.”

And so it is. When Baby finally enters the world, all of the pains of pregnancy soon subside. So, enjoy your pregnancy while it lasts. If something along the way concerns you and doesn’t seem right, contact your doctor.

Liberty mom Gina Klein is an author/ writer who will never forget the awful leg cramps she experienced during her two pregnancies.What worked for her?

Drinking Gatorade, stretching and putting a foam egg crate on top of her mattress.

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

babybytes

fertility apps Fertility Friend (free, Apple and Android) helps you keep track of your menstrual cycle. Helpful for when trying to conceive and for health purposes as well. The app integrates with FertilityFriend. com, which provides helpful charts, articles and more.

Trying to conceive? The What to Expect Fertility Tracker app (free, Apple) can be a help with your plans to get pregnant. Keep tabs on your cycle and pick up helpful pointers with this app from the popular “What to Expect” series by Heidi Murkoff.

The WomanLog Calendar (free, Android) is easy to use and provides helpful info to women trying to conceive.

All of the app’s main functions are accessible through a simple calendar. Simply tap a date, enter info and track your periods, basal body temperatures and most fertile days.

Knowing your most fertile days can be extremely helpful when trying to get pregnant. The Ovulation Calendar & Fertility app (free, Apple and Android) aids in determining your most fertile days by allowing you to enter the date your last period started, along with period length.

Lenexa mom Margaret Sarver wonders when phones got smarter than her. She lives in Lenexa with her family.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

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what babies need to thrive

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Why does my baby have hiccups so often?

Is it okay for baby to spit up? For answers to these questions and more, log onto KCParent.com.

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

s parents we want to make sure we are always doing what is best for our babies. We want them to grow up healthy and strong. We want to foster their cognitive development, and we want them to be happy. But how do we do that? How do we meet all of our babies’ needs and help them to thrive?

Today’s parents have access to more information than any other parents in history. At the touch of a button, we can learn about the development of an unborn baby, the nutritional needs of newborns and the expected developmental milestones.

We can quickly look to see whether our baby’s development is “on track,” and we can look for warning signs that something may be amiss. While all of this information can help us learn what to expect, it can also be overwhelming.

Knowing where to start can be difficult.

When trying to figure out what is best for our baby and what strategies we should use to help him or her develop, we need to think about our baby’s hierarchy of needs. Just like the hierarchy of needs for adults that was identified by Maslow, our baby’s needs can be looked at on a continuum, where basic needs must be met first before more complex needs can be addressed.

All babies have three basic levels of need: physical, emotional and cognitive. All of the things that babies need to thrive can be lumped into one of these three categories.

physical

Physical needs are our babies’ most basic needs. Before our babies can bond with us, before they can learn to sit up, roll over, crawl or talk, their physical needs must be met, and they need to be healthy and comfortable. If a baby is hungry, tired or sick, she won’t be able to grow and develop emotionally,

and her cognitive development will be impacted. When we think about our babies’ physical needs, we need to consider their nutrition, sleep and comfort. It is also imperative that they are living in a clean environment and that they have access to quality medical care.

Nutrition. It is important to figure out what form of feeding works best for your baby and to provide an adequate amount of nutritious food, be it breast milk or formula.

Sleep. Babies should get 12 to18 hours of sleep, depending on their age.

The amount of sleep your baby will need may vary, but be sure to let your baby sleep as much as she may need and in long enough blocks of time so that she is able to fully recharge.

Comfort. Be sure to keep your baby’s diapers and clothes clean and dry. Remember that babies have difficulty regulating their body temperatures, so be sure to dress your baby for weather, keeping him cool enough in hot weather and warm enough on cool days.

Clean environments. Babies’ immune systems are much weaker than those of adults, so be sure to sterilize bottles and sanitize toys on a regular basis.

Checkups and immunizations.

Visits to the pediatrician can help make sure babies are growing properly, that they are meeting developmental milestones and can receive important vaccinations to prevent dangerous disease.

security and will allow for emotional bonds to grow. Babies who have their physical needs met, who are secure and who have good bonds with their caregivers tend to be happy babies. Caregivers can foster their babies’ emotional needs by creating a structured environment with routines, by responding to their babies when they cry and by being affectionate and loving.

Create routine. Routines are important for helping babies know what to expect and when to expect it. They help to create security by making your baby’s world predictable.

Respond to their cries. There is a time and place when letting your baby cry it out makes sense, but it is also important to make sure you are responding to the needs of your baby.

When your baby is crying, try to figure out why. After all, she can’t talk to tell you what she needs right now. Crying is how she communicates.

Be affectionate and loving. When you hug, kiss and cuddle your baby, it helps her to feel loved and secure, which in turn gives her the confidence to explore and try new things. Every family expresses their love in different ways, but however you choose to do it, do it often.

cognitive

emotional

Emotional needs refer to our babies’ needs for security and love.

Once our babies’ physical needs have been met, bonding with caregivers can flourish. The ways that caregivers interact with babies will help to create

Our babies’ developmental needs include cognitive stimulation and learning new skills. Once our babies’ physical needs are met, once they have developed security and strong bonds with their caregivers, then they are able to interact with their environments in ways that help them to learn new things. Babies’ developmental needs are addressed when we talk with them, when we create enriched environments to give them lots of stimulation and when we read to them.

Talk to your baby. Babies develop their ability to talk and understand language only if they are exposed to language. The more you talk with

Baby’s needs can be looked at on a continuum, where basic needs must be met first before more complex needs can be addressed. your baby, the quicker she will learn to communicate and the greater her vocabulary will be.

Enriched environments. Babies learn new things through experience.

The more experiences you can provide for your baby, through sight, sounds, smells, tastes and touch, the more she will be able to learn.

Read to your baby. Reading is important. It provides auditory and visual stimulation, helping to develop your baby’s cognitive skills. It’s great cuddle time, too!

When we think about our babies’ needs and we begin to sift through the numerous resources that are available to us, the task of helping them to thrive can seem very daunting. But by thinking of our babies’ needs as part of a hierarchy, we can easily figure out what we need to do first and in what order needs should be addressed.

Dr. Annette Griffith lives in the Kansas City area. She is the director of Momentum Behavioral Health and the mother of two young children.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

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• Secure dressers (even short ones), televisions, bookcases and other tipprone furniture to the wall with furniture straps.

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• Learn more about household poisons by always checking product labels.

• Install window blind cord wind-ups.

• Apply stove and burner covers.

• Lock or latch cabinets that children should not get into.

• Test smoke alarms and change batteries every six months.

• Use back burners first when cooking.

• Set hot water heater to below 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Purchase a fire extinguisher and store in the kitchen.

• Move baby’s crib away from any windows.

• Place knives and matches out of children’s reach.

• If you have a gun in your home, make sure that it is stored unloaded and locked with ammunition stored and locked separately.

Visit KCParent.com for great tips when babyproofing your home. kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

• Shorten cords on appliances that could be pulled down.

• Use doorknob covers.

• Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs.

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• Keep a list of emergency numbers near the phone.

• Use plug covers or caps in all electrical outlets.

Log onto KCParent.com to find out how to support your new walker.

baby steps:

a step-by-step guide to buying baby shoes

T

he first year of a baby’s life is filled with exciting milestones that parents document enthusiastically. Waving, smiling, cooing, sitting and crawling bring parents immense joy as they watch their child grow and develop from a tiny newborn to a blossoming child. Walking is a milestone near the top of the list for most. When Baby begins walking (usually between 9 and 15 months), you may wonder whether it’s time to run out and buy the latest best-selling baby shoe. Or should Baby just cruise barefooted for awhile? When is your baby really ready for shoes?

You might be surprised to hear that pediatricians, parent educators and even the American Academy of Pediatrics all agree that walking barefoot is best for babies just learning to walk. As your baby begins to tread upon this milestone, he will have to master the many components of walking, something best achieved barefoot.

“Babies need to learn to balance, as well as increase the muscles in the foot and ankle for support,” says Dr. Aundria Speropoulos, MD, FAAP, of Leawood Pediatrics. “This is best achieved by being barefoot, which allows an infant’s toes to grip, and the heel to aid in balancing.”

As an added benefit, walking barefoot provides baby with an added sensory experience of feeling varying surfaces.

Once your little mover graduates from taking a few steps to being on the go, it’s time to purchase the first “real” pair of shoes. Babies also need shoes to protect their feet from rough, hot, cold or uneven surfaces. There is no shortage of shoes on the market these days for even the tiniest consumer, so what should parents look for when navigating all of the options?

“Infant shoes that are flexible and thin soled will continue to allow the child to grip the ground and balance,” says Dr. Speropoulos. This allows your baby to feel the ground as she walks, which will help her as she learns. The shoes should be flexible enough that your baby’s feet can bend naturally. Shoes for babies should be made of breathable materials that are lightweight, such as leather or quality mesh, because babies’ feet sweat twice as much as adults’ feet. Finding shoes that have an elasticized back (at the heel) also helps keep the shoes fastened closely.

Keep in mind that even your baby should have his foot measured to find a shoe that fits properly. Once you know the size, consider trying the following shoe brands: Robeez Soft Soles, Pediped, Bobux, Jemos and Stride Rite. These shoes fit the criteria and will get your baby started off on the right foot!

Marisa Frymire lives in Overland Park with her three young children, one of whom is close to being a new walker!

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“PARENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO VISIT OFTEN AND STAY AS LONG AS THEY DESIRE. PARENTS PLAY THE MOST IMPORTANT ROLE IN THEIR BABY’S PLAN OF CARE.”

OVERLAND PARK REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER NICU

Photo credit: Jessica Strom Photography

BONDING WITH BABY IN NICU D

uring pregnancy, you imagine giving birth to a healthy, full-term baby, but sometimes complications arise, and the baby is born prematurely. The regular hospital nursery can’t provide the in-depth care premature babies require, so little ones are admitted to the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).

Babies in the NICU need constant care and monitoring, which can interrupt the bonding time parents have dreamed about during pregnancy. Dr. Kristin Voos, neonatologist at Children’s Mercy Hospital, explains, “It can be hard to find the parent role when your baby is in NICU.”

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

Fortunately, there are numerous ways you can bond with your newborn while he’s in the NICU.

BE INFORMED

Find out as much as possible about your baby’s medical condition. Sometimes her lungs just need a few more days to mature; other times, more serious complications are the reason for the NICU stay. By asking questions and researching her medical condition, you will become your baby’s biggest advocate.

Developing a good relationship with the staff is important, as you will be seeing them quite often. NICU is a busy place with a large staff of nurses, doctors, technicians and other medical personnel who will help you and your baby through this journey.

VISIT WITH YOUR BABY AS OFTEN AS POSSIBLE

According to Regina Fraiya, RN, MSN, CPNP, manager of Neonatal Services at Shawnee Mission Medical Center, “Parents are encouraged to visit often and stay as long as they desire. Parents play the most important role in their baby’s plan of care.” If mom is unable to visit baby right after birth, check to see what kind of technology is available. For example, Fraiya says that at Shawnee Mission Medical Center, “We have the technology to provide a video of her infant through our interactive TV system.

It’s reassuring for her to feel connected to her baby while still recovering from delivery.”

Raytown mom Melinda Simms says that while her daughter was in NICU, “We did 80 round trips in 40 days to Children’s Mercy. We don’t regret any of those trips.

I think babies use all five senses to bond.

So they are smelling and hearing their parents if they are in the room.”

If you live far away from the hospital, visiting often may be difficult. Ask if there are any housing charities nearby and use them if you can. When Lenexa mom Beth Ashby gave birth more than six weeks

early while visiting family in St. Louis, she and her family stayed at Ronald McDonald House Charities near the hospital. “The staff–mostly volunteers–were amazingly compassionate, sweet and caring,” Ashby says. “It was an incredible experience that I will forever be grateful for.”

If you have other children at home, find someone to stay with them so you can spend more time at the hospital. Family and friends will likely pitch in and watch the kids to save you the expense of hiring a sitter.

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HELP WITH YOUR BABY’S PERSONAL CARE

Parents look forward to feeding, burping, diapering and bathing their newborn, but those routines that we take for granted can be compromised in the NICU. However, parents often can take steps to help personally care for their babies.

Gladstone mom Stacy Taylor’s son had a short stay in the NICU in May. She says, “We asked to change the diapers when we went in for feeding time. We also took turns tube feeding the baby when necessary.”

If the situation allows, breastfeeding will help strengthen the bond between a mom and baby. Mom and Dad also can take turns bottle feeding their newborn if possible.

In addition, parents can find simple ways to help with bathing their baby. Ask if you can use a warm cloth or cotton ball to cleanse your baby. The warmth and physical contact will soothe her.

If you are unsure of what to do, ask questions! A staff member will be glad to offer suggestions.

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HAVE AS MUCH SKIN-TO-SKIN CONTACT AS POSSIBLE Elaine Riordan, LMSW, Overland Park Regional Medical Center NICU, recommends intimate contact with baby.

It is a very powerful tool in the bonding process. Parents are encouraged to hold every day if baby is medically able to be held. Kangaroo care is promoted and

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baby’s signs You can read your baby’s “sign language” by observing him in the NICU. Some “signs” will be: • I need to rest.

• I’m ready to bond with you.

• I find this comforting.

• I’ve had enough.

encouraged. In Kangaroo care, the baby is undressed down to his diaper and placed on a parent’s bare chest, providing skinto-skin contact. “It’s therapeutic for baby and the baby’s parents” says Riordan.

Kangaroo care has been shown to improve the baby’s heart rate, maintain his body temperature and aid in weight gain.

Mothers who practice kangaroo care have better milk supplies and less depression, too. Kangaroo care is not limited to mothers, and dads are encouraged to participate, too.

If doctors believe that holding your baby would be too much, you can still hold her hand, touch her arm or simply place your hand on her back for warmth and comfort. When her daughter was in the NICU, Melinda Simms used as much skin-to-skin contact as possible, “even if it was just touching a hand or cheek.”

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

FOCUS ON YOUR BABY

It is normal to feel stressed and anxious when your baby is in the NICU, but try to set aside your worries and concentrate on your baby when you are there. Negative emotions such as stress will prevent you from bonding with your baby.Your little one needs you to be strong, so focus on positive thoughts while you are with him.

If you can hold him, tune out the beeping machines and concentrate on bonding with your baby while he’s in your arms. If you cannot hold him, sit close to his isolette and focus all your attention on him.

Your baby will spend much of his time sleeping, but when he is awake, make eye contact with him as much as possible. This will help with the bonding process and make your baby feel more comfortable.

REMEMBER—BONDING COMES IN MANY FORMS

Bonding with your baby is not limited to holding her and touching her, although those are certainly important aspects.

Ashby says that while her son Jonas was in the NICU, “He loved my singing from my iPod. Just being in the room, talking and visiting with family made a big difference.”

Reading to your baby, talking to him and decorating his space with stuffed animals or pictures are other ways you can bond.

Tisha Foley lives in Belton with her husband and two children.

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

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babystory

our baby story STARVED FOR SLEEP

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

never would have dreamed four years ago that we were not just about to welcome a new baby, but also a new lifestyle, a new identity and even a new business that helps other moms!

My first pregnancy was full of excitement. We didn’t find out the gender, which added to the anticipation.

Supportive friends and relatives threw baby showers, and my awesome hubby, Greg, took me on a “babymoon.” While leaving a job I loved was bittersweet, I was thrilled that I was going to have the opportunity to stay home and cuddle with our new baby. I could do some work parttime from home.

While pregnant, I found time to read about the strange and unexpected things happening to my body, and I prepared for what I hoped would be a natural, unmedicated birth. Beyond that, I wasn’t really thinking or worrying about parenting. In fact, I had a pretty glamorous

vision of what my life would be like as a stay-at-home mom.

I was blessed with a challenging but incredibly positive birth experience and 10 days of bliss with our sleepyhead newborn daughter. Then, reality hit! For the next month, our little girl was more of a fussy baby than an easy baby, especially in the evenings. I was frustrated with people who would insinuate that it was my fault— that the baby was stressing because I was stressing.

Motherhood was a lot tougher than I thought it would be! I went from spending my days at work feeling competent and appreciated to feeling completely inept at home.

I was perplexed and exhausted.

I had never had another human being completely dependent on me (and Greg).

Everything changed. The lifestyle I had taken for granted was in total upheaval.

Our sleep was constantly interrupted.

Meals were now a juggling act. With a volatile baby in tow, it was suddenly daunting to consider running errands and having a social life.

Desperately, I sought advice from “mom friends.” Thankfully, they had better perspective and could offer me books, tips and reassuring reminders like, “Everything is just a phase!”

It takes time and experience to get better at this motherhood gig. In time, I became comfortable with my new lifestyle and positive about my new identity. Our children make life so rich and vivid. I feel blessed to be a mom and honored to have the awesome responsibility of forming these sweet young people.

I’m still learning how to juggle new and different demands, but I sense my confidence growing. Here are three things that were key to getting on track with my new life:

1) SLEEP

Everything seems 10 times worse when you’re sleep deprived! I never struggled with insomnia before having kids. At the end of the day, I always crash easily. However, after a child woke me in the night, I would sometimes spend an hour or two going through my “to do” list or thinking through something in particular. I tried to relax but I couldn’t turn my brain off. Similarly, Greg had trouble getting to sleep after a manic work day. Our sleep eventually led us to discover that there are a few select superfruits around the world proven to help with sleep. Long story short, we created Berry Sleepy –the first 100 percent fruit sleep aid. Now I take Berry Sleepy to get back to sleep and later wake refreshed. At the beginning of this year, we began sharing our concoction not just with friends and relatives but with all of America! We launched an online business and we have been on an entrepreneurial adventure ever since!

As for the children, we found Dr. Weissbluth’s book Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child had every answer for which we were searching. We learned that “sleep begets sleep,” and that a baby can be delightful when we understand and

respect her sleep needs! The book offers a variety of age-appropriate strategies for different parenting styles. Now our kids sleep 12 hours each night and take 1- to 2-hour naps!

2) REDEFINED RELATIONSHIPS

There’s a reason most playdates are in the morning: children are at their best after a good night’s sleep! A lot of my social life has shifted to the mornings, and I now schedule everything around the kids’ routines. I became closer with women who also have young children, and I came to terms with the fact I wouldn’t be able to see my single girlfriends as often. My lifestyle changed more than I originally anticipated, but I wouldn’t trade my time with our silly little giggleboxes for anything!

3) DIGNITY IN THE SMALL STUFF

Like many women, my identity was previously wrapped up more in myself: my work, interests and accomplishments. I still make time for myself, but now my identity hinges on what I am to others: a wife and mother. Sometimes, as strong women, we are tempted to think that our time spent cleaning poopy bottoms and thanklessly doing laundry is meaningless drudgery.

I’ve found that attitude to be toxic, so I do my best to see the beauty and meaning in the “small stuff.” These are opportunities to serve my family—and what kind of love would I have if I weren’t willing to get over myself and do the daily dirty work?

When we are big-hearted about doing the little things, that generosity blesses both others’ lives and our own. We find ourselves when we give of ourselves.

It is a privilege to be the one who gets to constantly interact with these little people and do all of the big and little things that help them thrive.

Adrienne and Greg Doring live in Prairie Village. They have three children: Monica, 3 ½, Thomas, 1 ½, and a baby due this fall.You can check out their business at BerrySleepy.com. They are offering KC Baby readers $5 off with coupon code MOMS.

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Then, reality hit! For the next month, our little girl was more of a fussy baby than an easy baby, especially in the evenings.

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realmomreviews Noodle & Boo Baby Care My babies have sensitive skin, so we are limited when it comes to which products can be used in our home. This skin care line is free of questionable ingredients, is hypoallergenic and has been clinically tested to minimize the risk of allergic reaction. Noodle & Boo has been a welcome find for our little ones. $12-$16, NoodleAndBoo.com

Flat Out of Heels

If you are a working mom-to-be, chances are your feet need a break on a daily basis! These little shoes can be rolled small enough to fit in the average purse and will keep you looking professional when you can no longer tolerate heels. They’re also a great backup pair of shoes to keep in the diaper bag—any mom will tell you that you can never be over-prepared! $19.99, FlatOutOfHeels.com

The Honest Toddler: A Child’s Guide to Parenting by Bunmi Laditan

Beaba Sac Open Diaper Bag

Believe it or not, your choice of diaper bag has a lasting effect on you and your child! It’s your new purse, and it now must contain all your necessities PLUS diapers, wipes, lotions, extra clothes, pacifiers, toys and snacks. This bag opens extra wide to aid in finding lost items. It’s water resistant, has nine storage pockets and comes with a pacifier case, changing mat and dirty laundry bag (great for cloth diapering mamas)! $99.95, Amazon.com

Being a New Parent by Papersalt

Anyone who has raised a child through the toddler years will tell you that you’ll need some comic relief. Do yourself a favor and keep this book in your stash, even if your baby won’t hit the toddler stage for a while. Written from an outspoken toddler’s perspective, this book will teach you all about weaning yourself off sleep and which foods are approved for toddler consumption (cake, juice and jelly beans are good; lentils not so much). $19.99, SimonAndSchuster.com

Those giant manuals for new parents can be pretty intimidating. This short and sweet version gives realistic parenting advice that will help you relax before Baby arrives— and smile through the early, sleep-deprived weeks. This little coil-bound book would be a perfect baby shower gift and even suggests that you add your own notes and pass it on to another expecting parent. $12.95, Papersalt.com

Julie McKinley is a stay-at-home mom of a 2-year-old son and infant daughter in Lee’s Summit. Keeping up with her kids is a full-time job, so she is always on the lookout for innovative baby products that make life a little easier! In between snuggles and diaper changes, she blogs at DirectorJewels.com.

there are lots of baby products out there, but these are a few we just think are great!

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

nestingnuggets

the importance of

folic acid W

Because the spinal cord and brain begin developing in the first 3-4 weeks post-conception, it is important to have folic acid in your system prior to pregnancy for optimal benefit.

hy it is important during pregnancy, recommended amounts and what to do if you are deficient.

Have you ever sat around with your group of girlfriends and talked about your folic acid levels? No? Me neither. Many of us have heard about folic acid but may or may not fully realize the importance. Folic acid (Vitamin B9) helps the body make new healthy cells. The vitamin helps form red blood cells and produce DNA, the building block of the human body, which carries genetic information Including folic acid as part of your daily nutrition before and during pregnancy is a major component of having a healthy baby and being a healthy mom for many reasons. Folic acid decreases the risk of many birth defects—especially those involving the spine and brain.

Probably the most common birth defects resulting from insufficient folic acid levels

are spina bifida, which is incomplete development of the spinal cord or vertebrae, and anencephaly, which is incomplete development of major parts of the brain. These defects are scary and often mean either incompatibility with life or lifelong developmental delays. The neural tube develops into the brain and spinal cord, and these birth defects often occur in the first three to four weeks of pregnancy.

Because the spinal cord and brain begin developing in the first three to four weeks post-conception, it is important to have folic acid in your system prior to pregnancy for optimal benefit.

Dr. Thomas M. Lancaster, Sunflower Neonatology Associates/Overland Park Regional Medical Center, states, “The supplementation should start before women conceive because neural tube defects occur very early in embryonic development (often before women know that they are pregnant).” Once pregnant, you can receive a prescription prenatal from your doctor. If you have picked out your own over-the-counter vitamin, make sure it has the recommended folic acid level.

Ensuring your body has adequate amounts of folic acid also can decrease risk of cleft palate/lip, premature birth, low birth weight, miscarriage and poor growth in utero. In addition, there are also benefits to Mom. Appropriate levels can decrease pregnancy complications and decrease risk for heart disease, stroke, some cancers and Alzheimer’s disease (WebMD.com).

While folic acid can be found synthetically in certain foods, most women don’t get the recommended amounts consistently. While there are some grains that are enriched with folate, such as cereal, bread, pasta and rice, other foods are naturally rich in the nutrient, including dried beans and peas, dark green vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and asparagus, citrus fruits, lentils and many juices (BabyCenter.com). The recommended daily intake of folic acid is 400 micrograms (mcg), with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommending 600 mcg once pregnant. There are instances where the recommendation level can be different, so please contact your health professional if you have questions or need additional guidance.

Jessica Heine, RN, lives in Olathe with her husband and two young children.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

23

FALL KC FAVORITES

with tots BOO AT THE ZOO

The warm scent of mulled apple cider wafts through the air. Autumn leaves crackle. Vibrant colors glow.

Laughing children race to select pumpkins, and crisp air calls for snuggling into a favorite sweater.

In celebration of the season, here are five fall favorites for family fun you don’t want to miss.

FALL FUN AT THE KC ZOO

The zoo is decorated in the autumn with fun and spooky (not too scary for the little ones) decorations.

Enjoy Hoots and Howls at the Kansas City Zoo (KansasCityZoo.org).

The fun lasts from 10:00 to 3:00 every Saturday and Sunday in October. Enjoy zoo-mazing activities and entertainment, including face painting, hay rides, pedal tractors, a hay bale maze and costumed characters. And—an annual favorite— you can watch the animals participate in the fun by smashing pumpkins.

Then, take the kids out for trickor-treating at Boo at the Zoo, Oct. 19 and 20, from 9:30 to 5:00. The event features entertainment and activities, including pedal tractor rides, spooky crafts and hayrides. Little ones can trick-or-treat at stations located throughout the zoo.

MAGICAL & WHIMSICAL WALKS THROUGH THE WOODS

Every autumn Kansas City’s nature centers host delightful events as their nature trails are transformed into fairytale forests where costumed characters unveil charming stories right before your eyes. A few of these events include:

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

ENCHANTED FOREST

pumpkin patches Visiting the pumpkin patch is a fall favorite for many in Kansas City.

Carolyn’s Country Cousins Patch Bring the family to our 50-acre U-Pick pumpkin patch, 10:00-7:00. Pick your own pumpkin from our selection or take an oldfashioned hayride to the field! Weekends feature Uncle Lester’s pig races, live entertainment and great food. 816.781.9196.

CarolynsCountryCousins.com

Into the Land of Oz: Oct. 5, 2:009:00 at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center.

You and your family are invited to help Dorothy in her quest! Remember, there is magic in the night! You never know who you are going to meet along the trail! Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!

Admission is free. Walk-ins welcome. For more information, call 816.228.3766.

Magic Woods: Oct. 11, 6:00-9:00 and Oct. 12, 5:00-9:00 at Lakeside Nature Center. Take a walk on the wild side with Mother Nature and her friends as animal characters tell their stories and encourage children to love nature and conservation. For information, call 816.513.8960. $5/person; children under 3 are free.

Whimsical Woods: Oct. 12, 1:004:00 at Ernie Miller Nature Center.

Meet with the Good Fairy and forest friends. Live animals, stories, songs and surprises will highlight childhood favorites. Reservations are required.

For more information and to register, call 913.764.7759. $5/person (including adults), paid at site.

Enchanted Forest: Oct. 24, 6:009:00 at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Visitors will enjoy free activities, including performances by marionette puppets, magicians and singers along the trail around Rose’s Pond and fun photos in the photo booth. Stroll the seasonal displays, visit friendly characters and enjoy performances at your leisure—no long lines this year. Admission is free.

For questions, call 913.477.7100.

Jack-o’-Lantern Walk: Every

October, families flock to Halloween Spooktacular, one of Powell Gardens’ most popular events for children. The Jack-o’-Lantern Walk offers a low-key alternative that’s great for all ages. Visit PowellGardens.org for complete event details.

PUMPKIN EXPRESS

On weekends in October, the Belton, Grandview & Kansas City Railroad (BeltonRailroad.org) offers a seasonal treat with Pumpkin Express rides aboard a 1920 passenger coach that traveled more than 1 million miles before being retired in 1984. The engine is a 1950s diesel locomotive that travels through Old Towne Belton on a 5-mile, 45-minute round trip. Volunteers decorate the inside of the train with fall decorations, and music plays as you ride. Upon arrival at the patch, children select a favorite pumpkin to purchase ($3-$10 according to size) and play fall-themed games (bean bag toss, ring toss, etc.) and earn prizes. The magic of the train is found in the heart of the volunteers. You’ll meet the conductor (in costume) who greets guests and collects tickets, ladies in costume cheerfully greeting families and volunteers with a passion for trains who maintain the track and trains. The engineer greets visitors after the trip and gives them a chance to board the engine and ask questions about the train, making the trip fun and educational. And not one worker receives pay—they are all motivated

Johnson Farms At Johnson Farms, you’ll be in the country, but close to home. Take a wagon ride out to the pumpkin patch and grab u-pick fall produce. Experience our giant jumping pillow, crawl around in our FREE giant tunnel maze or explore the 20-acre corn maze.

Visit the animal corral, play yards & enjoy a picnic. JohnsonFarms.net 816.331.1067.

Faulkner’s Ranch—Pumpkin Season!

Oct. 1-31, 10:00 -6:00 daily. Special events on weekends.

FaulknersPumpkinFarm.com has all of the attractions and upcoming events.

Clean, quality, interactive fun at Faulkner’s Ranch. 816.761.1234 Louisburg Cider Mill Country Store Store hours: 8:00-6:00 (Mon.-Sat.),10:00-6:00 (Sun.). Ciderfest: Sept. 29 & 30 and Oct. 6 & 7, live music, food and craft booths.

Special fall family fun! 10-acre witch corn maze, farm animals, children’s play area, huge pumpkin patch & more!

913.837.5202. LouisburgCiderMill.com Paradise Park Enjoy a good old-fashioned tractor-pulled hayride while munching on s’mores and sipping hot chocolate. Sit on bundles of straw with family and friends while hearing stories and playing games, celebrating fall fun. Petting zoo on Saturdays (1:00-7:00) from Sept. 21 thru Oct. 26. 816.246.5224.

Paradise-Park.com Shuck’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch Two mazes located within one, with different levels of difficulty. Barrel train ride, corn crib—it’s a large sandbox only it’s filled with corn. Hay mountains, tractor-pulled hayrides, concessions, bonfires and field trips. 816.335.4014. ShucksMaze.com

NEW Interactive ONLINE PUMPKIN PATCH GUIDE featuring maps, photos and videos available at KCParent.com. kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

25

LOUISBURG CIDER MILL

by their love for the kids and the joy of seeing the smiles on their faces!

WATCH APPLE CIDER MAKING

An autumn tradition you’ll want to experience is a visit to the Louisburg Cider Mill (14730 Hwy. 68, 913.837.5202; cider mill hours: Mon.-Sat., 8:00-6:00, Sun., 9:00-6:00). The delicious aroma of fresh made cider greets you from your first step on the property. Visitors watch as fresh cider is made from scratch at the cider mill every day. From

start to finish: the apples are washed, pressed and processed, and finally bottled and made available for purchase. Inside the gift shop, visitors view as fresh apple cider donuts are made—be sure to enjoy a warm one before you leave!

One of the fall’s best festivals is the annual Louisburg Cider Fest, the last weekend of September and first weekend of October, where you can enjoy handmade crafts, live music, barbecue, pumpkins, kids’ activities, a hay castle and farm animals. From the pumpkin patch to kettle corn, there is something for everyone in the family.

tip:

Call ahead and verify that they are making cider in the morning and that you will be there in time.

LEAF PEEPING

Colorful autumn leaves captivate children. You’ll find many scenic trails to enjoy across the Metro, from paved (perfect for strollers) to woodchip to simple clearings in the woods. A terrific resource is the book Hiking Kansas City

by William Eddy and Richard Ballentine.

Eddy and Ballentine provide detailed descriptions of each trail, maps and photos.

Visit autumn favorites for great colors and family photos in every quadrant: South—Overland Park Arboretum; Central—Longview Lake Trails; West—Antioch Park; East—Burr Oak Woods Nature Center; and North— Parkville Nature Sanctuary.

And don’t forget the classic autumn traditions of jumping in piles of leaves and making crayon rubbings to decorate the fridge!

Autumn is Kristina Light’s favorite season for family fun! She can be found playing in the leaves with her girls, decorating pumpkins, enjoying cider donuts and celebrating at local festivals all season long!

Bring in this ad & receive $1 off single admission.

Cannot be combined with other offers.

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

got cravings?

I’m happy to inform you that no pickles are present in my ice cream.

I

’ve got a confession to make. When pregnancy cravings didn’t strike, I sort of took the liberty of inventing my own.

Every kid needs a good story about how his mom ate some odd combination of this or that or how Dad had to go to the store at 3:00 a.m. to get “fill-in-the-blank” for Mom’s craving. I decided to make my food of choice simple and low-maintenance for everyone involved (after all, if it’s purely a manufactured craving, why add stress to the mix?). No late night runs to a fast food joint or grocery store for me (or for my poor hubby!). No, I figured pregnancy was as good as any excuse for indulging my sweet tooth—and what better reason to

blogbits

celebrate than being with child? So, frozen custard after every doctor’s appointment it was! It seemed a natural choice really. My OB/GYN office was conveniently located right across the street from a Sheridan’s.

Consequently, every routine appointment became cause for celebration, which came in the form of a Buckaroo and Razzle Dazzle. And I was, of course, eating for two, so that meant I needed the larger size, right?

Unfortunately, it was only a matter of time before “you are what you eat” took its full effect, and the image bouncing back at me in the mirror looked more like a marshmallow with hands and feet than a pregnant woman. At the onset of my third trimester, I tried to divert my gaze from the scale at my bi-monthly appointments because ignorance was bliss. I didn’t really want to know whether all that hot fudge and caramel topping was catching up with me. It became clear after our darling newborn entered our world that my postpartum body was reeling from the effects of a sweet tooth run wild as much as the incredible changes that come from growing a 9-plus-pound infant.

Since then, I have tried to manufacture a love for running. It’s not come as naturally as my love for frozen custard, but the benefits have been pretty sweet (no pun intended!). It’s a great stress reliever, preparing for races has made me more self-disciplined, and I’m glad that my kids are observing the role fitness has on their mommy’s life (I can only hope it sets a positive example for their own health!).

As with most things, I’m trying to strike a balance. I still hit the trail when the weather allows for a little exercise and fresh air, but when there’s reason for celebration, ice cream, sprinkles and cherries are involved.

And by the way…I’m happy to inform you that no pickles are present in my ice cream. I’ll leave that to another mama’s craving.

Lauren Greenlee lives in Olathe with her family. She and other moms (and dads) blog daily at KCParent.com. Join the conversation today! kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

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san

ng

ti y savi

W While being a new mom is perhaps the most exciting and joyous time in your life, it can also overwhelm and intimidate even the most easygoing woman.

e ate a light lunch and rehashed the events of the last 48 hours while our new baby slept peacefully in the Pack ‘n Play next to us. Soon after, we bid farewell to my parents (because apparently my husband and I thought it was a BRILLIANT idea to figure out this “new baby thing” on our own). The garage door closed, and my husband and I stared blankly at one another, as if to say, “Now what?!” Familiar? Here are a few tips to help you ease into the transition of parenthood.

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Rest.

Get as much rest as you can, when you can. You can’t be at your best when you’re exhausted, and you’re bound to be with a newborn. It’s so cliché to say, “Sleep when Baby sleeps,” but do it. The house chores and things you think you NEED to do can wait. Trust me. Ask a close friend or relative to stay with your baby while you catch an hour’s nap. It’s a win-win for everyone… they’ll get to cuddle a newborn while you get a nap!

Stock up.

Check out Pinterest, brainstorm ideas with friends or simply do a Google search for freezer friendly meal ideas. Gather a few friends and cook together or agree to swap frozen meals. Stock up on household items, as well.

Having cleaning supplies, paper goods and toiletries on hand will help. While you may look forward to getting out, it’s also nice to know you don’t have to.

ME time.

Yes, you time! Get a massage, go to Target alone, have lunch with a friend, go for a walk, sit outside, take a shower. “When I need a break or just a moment to relax, it is amazing how a shower can rejuvenate me,” says Overland Park first-time mom Katie O’Hara. “A few minutes of alone time can make a huge difference. It is also a time that I am spit-up free for a few moments before I dive back into the throes of mommy-hood.”

Toni B: Remember to appreciate your husband, even for everything he isn’t doing. Your family started with two and will one day be just two again.

Never forget your love.

Cindy D: Take lots of pictures to capture those moments! I cherish those pictures so much as they have gotten older!

Stephanie U: Do not stress so much about germs. I carried around hand sanitizer, Lysol and Clorox wipes like a crazy person. The second you turn your head, your kid will be licking the part of the grocery cart you did not cover or sanitize.

Connect.

Establish connections with other moms so you can share experiences, support one another and expose your child to a variety of people and environments at an early age. Check out groups at your church, local MOPS groups, a Little Bundles class at My Gym, or join Stroller Strides. Meredith Paranjothi, mom to a 3-year-old and owner of Stroller Strides, says, “Fit4Mom—Stroller Strides is a stroller-based workout that is fun for everyone. By using children’s songs and activities, moms are able to exercise while entertaining our children. We also have mom’s night out and playgroups outside of class time that allow us to interact and support each other as a community of moms.”

Hubby who?

You both may be exhausted, but try to have a date night within the first month or two after your baby is born. Schedule a sitter, head out for a walk together, grab a bite to eat or sneak in a friendly game of mini golf. If you don’t feel like you can get out, do a date night in. Fix dinner together, watch a movie or favorite TV show or play a game! It’s important to maintain a connection with your husband. After all, if you keep your relationship strong, you’ll not only be a support for one another but a positive role model for your children, as well!

Amber B: Stock up on diapers, wipes and feminine products while pregnant!

Tania R: Give them a few minutes to finish off that diaper!

Liz H: Don’t be afraid of your negative emotions about being a mother; it truly does get better. No one tells you how hard the first couple months are going to be. If they did, no one would have kids!

It’s OK.

Don’t be afraid to put your baby in a safe place (crib, car seat, bassinet) and walk away for some time to calm down if you are feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed. If your baby has colic or is struggling to settle, put on some music, go for a drive or walk or turn on the vacuum. Be humble and ask for help whether it’s with household chores, errands or just needing a break.

While being a new mom is perhaps the most exciting and joyous time in your life, it can also overwhelm and intimidate even the most easygoing woman. Take heed of advice, but certainly trust your new motherly instincts.

A coworker of mine once said having a child changes your life from black and white to color. What an amazing way to describe becoming a parent.

Enjoy!

Julie Collett has been a new mom and lived to tell the tale! She currently resides in Overland Park with her husband of five years and two children, ages 2 ½ and 7 months.

Jill H: Accept help if a friend or family member offers it— every extra boost, big or small, is extremely helpful.

We asked KC Parent’s 9,400+ Facebook fans, if you could give new moms only one piece of advice, what would it be? kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

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FALL 2013 CALENDAR

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

playdates WEEKLY

MONDAY

Early Bird Discount Before 10:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Enjoy indoor play especially for little ones. $5 + tax. 913.631.7000 Moms FREE Monday 9:30-8:00, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 KidScape Mon-Sat, 10:00-4:30, Johnson County Museum.

Hands-on exhibit immerses young children in a colorful, exciting environment.

913.715.2552 Toddler Takeover Mon, Wed & and Fri mornings, KC North Community Center. Bring little ones and let them run and play in the gym. Cost: $1/ session. 816.784.6100, KCParks.org

These events typically occur every week, but there may be exceptions. Please remember that events are subject to change and many facilities close on federal holidays, during inclement weather or when school is closed. Always call ahead to verify times. Tip: Visit KCParent.com/Going-Places/ for even more ideas!

TUESDAY

FREE Open Play Tue-Thu, 8:00-8:00; Fri, 8:00-4:00; Sat-Sun, 9:00-Noon, Parkside Coffeehouse (Cedar Ridge Christian Church). Indoor playground and toys for children and coffeehouse. 913.393.3000 Toddle Time Tue & Wed, 9:00-11:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Tunnels, games, puzzles… lots for your little one to play and learn. $1-2/child.

913.895.6390 Tots on Tuesday 3rd Tues

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

FALL 2013 CALENDAR

did you know?

The Johnson County Museum often offers kiddie musicians, storytellers and special events. Be sure to check out KCParent.com for all of the fun!

Funky Mama

Coffee Playground

Baby Bounce Story Time 9:30, Plaza Branch. Bring your infant (newborn to 18 months) for a fun story time every Wednesday. 816.701.3481 Story Time 10:00, Barnes & Noble (Town Center). Free story time for little ones.

913.491.4535 Family Fun Night 4:00-8:00, Monkey Bizness (Olathe). Admission is only $6 for kids to climb and bounce the evening away. 913.780.2500

THURSDAY

Nature Story Time 10:00 & 11:00, George Owens Nature Park. Children are invited to participate in a nature focused story time and craft. 816.325.7115 FitMom & Baby 10:30-11:30, Summit Fair.

Bring your baby with you to work out for free! SummitFairShopping.com

of each month, 11:00, Kemper Museum.

Explore bright colors and bold patterns.

Dress up, play color-matching games, try on crazy hats, and read stories with a trendy twist. 816.753.5784

WEDNESDAY

Preschool Playground Tue, 9:30-11:30, Irene French Comm Ctr. Enjoy Step 2 climbers, Little Tykes toys and more. $2/ child. 913.322.5550

Pop ‘n Play Alternating Wednesdays 9:00-11:00, Johnson County Museum.

Activities designed especially for your 9-month- to 3-year-olds. Fee: $1/child, members FREE. 913.715.2552

Coffee Playground 10:00-11:00, OPKS 1st Assembly of God. Coffee shop for moms and inflatables, balls and toys for kids under 5. Free. OverlandParkMOPS. blogspot.com

Toddle Time Tue & Wed, 9:00-11:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Tunnels, games, puzzles…lots for your little one to play and learn. $1-2/child. 913.895.6390

Paint Me a Story Alternating Fridays at 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint a ceramic piece, listen to story, and enjoy a snack. $15/child. 913.661.2529

Tiny Tot Skate 9:30-11:00, Skate City. Bring your little one out to the rink! $5/child.

913.888.6668

Family Night 4:00-9:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Enjoy indoor play especially for little ones. $6 + tax. 913.631.7000

Family Night Tue & Fri, 4:00-8:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Enjoy indoor play especially for little ones. $6/child; $4/crawler.

913.631.7000

Early Bird Discount Before 10:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Enjoy indoor play especially for little ones. $5 + tax. 913.631.7000

FRIDAY

Story Time 10:30 or 11:30, Shawnee Books & Toys. Free stories, craft and a snack!

Story time is ideal for ages 2-6, but everyone is invited! 913.962.1428 Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Paint pottery and enjoy a story. $9.50/child. 913.383.0222

kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

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FALL 2013 CALENDAR

parents’ night out

Visit the KCParent.com calendar with 1,000+ events each month

Weston Irish Fest CPR for the Soul, Oct. 4, 6:30-9:00 PM, Ceramic Café, CeramicCafeKC.com.

This monthly painting party night is great fun with friends! Create a guided project with instructions. Ceramic Café provides snacks; you bring your own drinks. October’s project is a bowl or platter with the theme “Eat, Drink and Be SCARY!” Call 913.383.0222 for reservations.

Weston Irish Fest, Oct. 11-13, Weston MO, WestonIrish.com. The Weston Irish Festival began in 2000 as a one-day event which drew an attendance of 1,500 people.

Since then, the event has grown to a three-day festival and has featured many of the greatest acts in Irish music.

Now celebrating its 13th year, Weston welcomes you to enjoy what promises to be another great weekend of all things Irish!

Fancy Free, Oct. 11-20, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, KCBallet.org.

Three sailors on leave in New York City make for great fun in Fancy Free. Legendary choreographer Jerome Robbins’ first ballet, accompanied by the exuberant music of Leonard Bernstein, sets the high-spirited tone for a spectacular evening of dance.

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The Foreigner, Oct. 11- Nov. 3, Spencer Theatre, KCRep.org. Charlie Baker needs to get away, and his friend Froggy knows just the place—his favorite fishing lodge in rural Georgia. To give Charlie much needed peace and quiet, Froggy convinces the locals Charlie doesn’t understand English. But the plan backfires when the lodge’s inhabitants reveal deep secrets and diabolical plans in front of their quiet foreign guest. Nonstop hilarity ensues and builds to an outrageously funny climax in this wild and wacky comedy.

Rodin Sculptures on exhibit in the Rozzell Balcony, thru Dec. 8, FREE, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Nelson-Atkins.org. The gallery is open until 9:00 on Thursdays and Fridays and until 5:00 on weekends, making it the perfect free date night.

The exhibit highlights the work of Auguste Rodin (French, 1840-1917), one of the most influential sculptors of the 19th century. Going against academic tradition, Rodin created highly expressive sculptures of the human body in his quest to convey such universal emotions as love, longing, reverie and despair.

Murder Mystery Dinner: Storage Wars of Death Oct. 25 & 26, Holyfield Winery, 18807 158th St., Basehor, KS, HolyfieldWinery.com. Upstage Productions presents a night of non-stop fun that is “to die for!” Reservations required; $40/ea. 913.724.9463

Comedy City at Westport Flea Market, Friday & Saturday evenings, 817 Westport Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.842.2744, ComedyCity.cc. Enjoy live improv comedy shows created with suggestions from the audience, making for laugh-out-loud sketches.

An Evening with Rita Moreno, Nov. 16, Yardley Hall, JCCC.edu. Rita Moreno, one of nine performers to win all four major artistic awards, the Oscar, the Grammy, the Emmy and the Tony, will perform at Yardley Hall this autumn.

Her performance will be with a trio and include her favorite songs and stories, including virtuoso performances of classic songs forever associated with her career.

Standees, open daily, 3935 W. 69th Ter., Prairie Village, KS, 913.601.5250, StandeesEatery.com. Standees, new on the KC scene in the past year, is an entertaining eatery fast becoming a local favorite. Order delicious food from the affordable upscale-casual restaurant, then enjoy a movie in the comfortable theater with oversized leather seats.

out & about with tots

December 17-24

Find a Treasure, Save a Fortune www.childorch.com • www.WePayCash.com

REASON TO SHOP AT CHILDREN’S ORCHARD

Sat., 13 th July SPIRIT OF July 16 - Oct. July 22 nd Sat./Sun., 5-6 BABY $1.00 SALE

BIG BRAND EVENT

Two-Day $1.00priced Playwear CHRISTMAS SALE All regularly infantSale It’sEnjoy simple-playwear items (pink tickets) 30% off regularly priced clothing (Newborn-12 months) is sizes newborn to children’s 12 on sale. resale toys, clothing & equipment. $1 each for items $4.99 or less O ffers cannot be combined with any other Now, two days only, your choice $1.00.** during thispromotion/discounts.

ONE DAY only!** Give your kids the names they prefer at the prices YOU prefer! Plus spend $35 & receive $10 store credit*January for your 14 visit.

Sat., Julynext 27

®

#14

Fri./Sat., Oct.EVENT 18-19 BABY $1.00 SALE BIG BRAND All regularlyAnniversary priced infant clothing Two-Day Sale Give your kids the names (NB-12 months) is $1 each for items *Cannot be combined with other discounts.

(NB-12 months) is $1 each for items Come celebrate with us and save th 20% DAY only! $4.99 or less during thisthONE on regular priced Resale Clothing**

they prefer at August 5 the- prices 7 Offers cannot be combined with any other YOU prefer!** promotion/discounts.

Back to School Tax Free Weekend

Children's Orchard will DOUBLE January 21 your sales Sat., November tax savings.

Yes, Even in our Olathe,2KS store.

The MO stateDress-Up sales tax* holiday is ON. SPRING BIG Holiday Event

The below tips will help you have a successful day out with your tot.

BRAND EVENT Perfect Looks for the Winter

*MO state exclusions and rules will apply

• Prepare children with emergency information and tips if they get lost in a crowd. Teach younger children your name and cell number. Also, teach them how to spot attraction employees or find another mommy, the best adults to ask for help if they do get lost.

• Dress siblings in matching clothes. It is easier to remember and look for one color in a crowd.

• Smaller children are much easier to spot in a crowd if they are wearing bright yellow rather than gray or white.

• For newly potty trained tots traveling long distances, consider packing pullups on the road (especially if you’re in a rural area with long stretches between rest stops).

• When visiting local attractions, a few short visits are better than one long visit for young attention spans.

Consider memberships to save on repeat visits. fall/winter 2013-14

At Children’s Orchard we buy, sell and recycle top-quality, gently used kids stuff At Children’s Orchard we buy, sell and recycle top-quality, for a fraction of the original cost. So if green is your color do something your kids gentlyyouused kids stuff a fraction of the cost.planet.

So if thank for: Reduce.

Reuse.for Recycle.

And leave themoriginal a gently used

green is your color do something your kids thank you for: Call for an appointment TODAY! Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.And Leave them a gently used planet.

OLATHE • 11933 Strang Line Rd. • 913-780-6600 Call for an appointment TODAY! INDEPENDENCE • 4201 S. Noland Rd. • 816-373-4585 OLATHE LineAve. Rd.••816-505-4400 913-780-6600 KCMO••11933 6242 N.Strang Chatham INDEPENDENCE S. Noland LEE’S SUMMIT •• 4201 1551 NE DouglasRd. St. •• 816-373-4585 816-524-7303

HALLOWEEN March 3 Sat., Sept. 14 THRILLER Sat./Sun., Nov. 16-17 HALLOWEEN SPRING HOLIDAY Our selection of costumes

Two-Day Buck is thrilling Baby & wait ‘til you Sale see

THRILLER NBDRESS-UP to 18mos, regularEVENT priced resale selection of costumes is at our low prices!

AllOur the best best looks for Spring holidays All the looks for Spring holidays at clothing, $3.99 or less.

Now $1.00** thrilling & wait ‘til you your favorite favorite prices. prices. Shop Shop 3/3 for your 3/3see for our low prices!

BEST selection! selection!

BEST *Store credit has no cash value, may only be redeemed for merchandise. Not valid on day of receipt. Cannot be**Offer combined with any other promotion or discount. cannot be combined with any other sale, Limit one per customer per day. coupon, or discount.

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before you go, pick up a copy of the new KC

Going Places!

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KCBABY4 LEAWOOD, KANSAS

For TONS more places to visit with tots plus insider tips to know

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103RD STREET

& CREATIVITY 2008 W. 103RD TERR., LEAWOOD, KS 66206 Store Hours: M-F 9–8/Sat 9–6/Sun 11–5 913-642-8247 www.ustoy.com

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bellylaughs

“...the car salesman asked if we conceived on Valentine’s Day...

Yep, he asked about THAT!” -Madi R.

We asked KC Parent’s 9,400+ Facebook Fans:

What is the craziest thing someone said to you while pregnant?

Madi R: My daughter was due in early November, and when we were buying a car, the car salesman asked if we conceived on Valentine’s Day... Yep, he asked about THAT! And in front of my parents.

Stephanie C: For me, it was less of what they said and more what people did. I had one co-worker who every time she saw me, would rub and cuddle/ caress my belly. It was very uncomfortable for me since I’m not that touchy feely a person.

Jen A: I was 7+ months pregnant and it was a swelteringly hot July day when a man said to me, “Wow, you’re really stretching that shirt out, huh?” It was so out of line and unbelievable that I just laughed.

Tiffany A: I had a man who was a complete stranger say to me as I was very pregnant and carrying ice cream back to my table at a restaurant, “You know you’ll have to work all that off later?”

Stacey A: Actually, when my son was 2 months old, I ran into a old coworker. She asked when my baby was due! Ouch!

Penny F: You’re not going to pop on me are you?... as I was making my way past several full chairs trying to get to the empty one in the middle of the row.

Tiffiney B: I had a man ask me if I was getting rid of my two- seated car because I was too big for it.

Ummm, no sir. It has no backseat for the car seat!

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kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

Associated Women’s Care Physicians, P.C.

Since founding Associated Women’s Care Physicians in 1968, our practice has been providing excellent obstetric and gynecologic care to Eastern Jackson County. Our providers are well trained in the management of women’s health, including: • Normal & high risk pregnancies • Vaginal birth after cesarean section • Infertility • Robotic Surgery

Lee’s Summit Office 816.246.7200

• Non-invasive & minimally invasive surgery • Contraceptive management • Hormone Therapy • 3D 4D Ultrasound

Blue Springs Office 816.228.4400

www.awcpobgyn.com

Dentistry That Will Make Kids

Board Certified Pediatric Dentists

Smile • Prompt, friendly care • Professional dental cleanings • Fun, interactive environment • Specialized dentistry just for kids!

kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

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Fall into Fun at the Kansas City Zoo

Oct. 5

Oct. 5 & 6

Oct. 12 & 13

Oct. 19 & 20

Oct. 19

Nov. 2

Nov. 16

Dec. 7

10th Annual Zoo Run Hoots and Howls Hoots and Howls Boo at the Zoo Brew at the Zoo and Wine too Great Pumpkin Smash Nikita Birthday Celebration Holiday Wild

kansascityzoo.org | 816.513.5800 36

kcparent.com oct-dec 2013

The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.