CityParent – Baby Guide – Spring 2022 by Media Classified

SPRING 2022

Eleanor age 1

COMPLETE GUIDE FOR PARENTS OF NEWBORNS & INFANTS

NEED CHILDCARE? SIMPLYSMART- BLOOR Open For 2022 Registration!

"FINDING THE IDEAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR CHILD"

ENROLL NOW!

Why SimplySmart? Great program & Teachers Full time or part time options Choice of Montessori or play based Nutritious meals provided Live streaming so you can see your child SimplySmart Connect App Daily, weekly, developmental & progress reports Multiple locations in southern Ontario inclusing Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Oakville, Waterloo, Elmira Scan the QR code to link to the website

905-593-6780 bloor@simplysmartchildcare.com

2271 Bloor Street W. Toronto M6S 1P1

CONTENTS

Common causes of prematurity

Prevent prenatal infections

SPRING 2022

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER Leo Racioppo leo@mediaclassified.ca

Baby bum baby care product information

Sonday The Label – maternity and nursing wear

The Simplest Baby Book in the World

Three month old baby care

ACCOUNT MANAGERS Gina Pappas gina.pappas@mediaclassified.ca

Make kids’ bedtime a breeze

Orli Gorokhovsky orli.gorokhovsky@mediaclassified.ca

Book Reviews

Cool Must-haves

Evereden products for baby

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER John Racioppo john@mediaclassified.ca EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mary Racioppo EDITOR Amanda Pereira

GROUP SALES MANAGER Randi Segal MANAGER CUSTOMER SALES & SERVICE Marilyn Watling marilyn@mediaclassified.ca DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA Lauren Reid-Sachs GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ASSISTANT MANAGER Alicesa Pullan GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Yvonne Poon, Mike Terentiev ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES accountingteam@mediaclassified.ca CIRCULATION INQUIRIES distributionteam@mediaclassified.ca All submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the editor at editorial@mediaclassified.ca

MediaClassified @MediaClassified

cityparent.com HOME OFFICE 610 Applewood Cres., Suite 401 Vaughan, ON L4K 0E3 905.761.3313 | 1.888.761.3313 Fax: 905.761.5038 E-mail: info@mediaclassified.ca

Common causes of prematurity

arents want to take every step they can to safeguard the health and well-being of their children - and precautions include actions taken even before the child is born. Expecting mothers follow strict prenatal guidelines to protect their physical health as well as the health of the developing fetus. Women can take various steps to help their unborn children make it to full term, but some factors that are beyond their control and may even lead to babies being born prematurely. A premature birth is one that takes place more than three weeks before the baby’s estimated due date, according to the Mayo Clinic. Premature births occur before the start of the 37th week of pregnancy, which is full term. Prematurity may be staged as late, moderately, very, or extremely preterm depending on when the baby is born. Most premature births occur in the late preterm stage, which is between 34 and 36 weeks. Babies born at less than 32 weeks of pregnancy or earlier are very or extremely preterm. Some causes of premature birth cannot be identified. However, certain factors are known to increase the risk of going into labour early. A pregnant woman with any of the following conditions is

more likely to give birth prematurely, according to Healthline Parenthood. Ý 'LDEHWHV Ý +HDUW GLVHDVH Ý .LGQH\ GLVHDVH Ý +LJK EORRG SUHVVXUH In addition, certain factors related to pregnancy also may lead to premature birth, including: Ý 3RRU QXWULWLRQ EHIRUH DQG GXULQJ pregnancy Ý 6PRNLQJ XVLQJ LOOHJDO GUXJV RU GULQNLQJ alcohol during pregnancy Ý ,QIHFWLRQV VXFK DV XULQDU\ WUDFW DQG amniotic membrane infections Ý $ SUHYLRXV FDVH RI SUHPDWXUH ELUWK Ý $Q DEQRUPDO XWHUXV Ý $ ZHDNHQHG FHUYL[ RSHQLQJ HDUO\ It is important that expecting mothers do everything they can to prevent prematurity. Premature babies may face a host of problems that put children’s overall health at risk. These include temperature instability; respiratory problems; cardiovascular issues, such as a heart condition called parent ductus arteriosus; jaundice; bleeding in the brain; and poor muscle tone. Women can speak with their obstetricians about the steps they can take to increase the likelihood that their babies make it to full term. BG – Metro Creative

BABY | SPRING 2022

Your one stop shop for everything baby & mama

Visit our retail store at 72 Doncaster Ave., Thornhill, ON L3T 1L3 (Yonge & Steeles)

Buy $100 gift card Pay only $90 dearbornbaby.com/city-parent Max purchase of 10 per order. Oﬀer ends May 31, 2022

905.881.3334 | 1.800.567.baby | info@dearbornbaby.com | dearbornbaby.com

Motherhood

Sponsored Content

How to cope with the emotional ride of being a new mom? BY HARLEEN LAROIA

other – a word so powerful, it symbolizes life. When a woman becomes a mother, she not only creates life but also re-creates herself. The re-creation happens since life changes, and as beautiful as having a baby can be it changes her entire existence. The emotional ride of becoming a mother includes the initial takeoff, followed by the jerks and jolts. Then we reach stable cruising altitude where weather changes determine how smooth the flight will be. Metaphors aside, the journey of having and raising a child is quite the ride. Before I became a mother, I was a working woman, independent, and I could do whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted. No one explained to me what a child would do to my life. All I heard was raving reviews. I had no idea what would happen. The pre-natal classes, which are meant to prepare us, focused more on the baby than the mother. When my first child was born- my daughter – she cried relentlessly for the first three days. I had no idea why. I was asked to nurse every two hours, but she wouldn’t latch on, and I was tired. I learned very quickly that I could bottle feed her, although every health practitioner told me that I should breastfeed. The part they did not understand is that people cannot go

without sleep for long and giving your baby the bottle is okay if it is impacting your health as a mom. When I was crying on the third evening, I felt like the world was crashing around me and I was failing. I want new mothers to know that they need to take care of themselves first, just like you put the oxygen mask on your face first, and then you are stronger and able to care for your child. If your child is not latching on or you’re not lactating enough, give them the bottle. Your child is being fed. The most important piece of advice for new moms is to take the time to care for themselves. Have your spouse take over or a friend babysit for short periods of time so you can have time to unwind. Whether it’s reading a book, watching TV, getting your nails or hair done don’t forget about yourself. It will help you become a better version of yourself as a mom. The perspective I have on motherhood is that it’s a chaotic yet fulfilling journey for women. It’s a journey that will make you cry, laugh, and feel anger, all while granting you unconditional love. It will change you in a way you had never imagined before. It will make you into a more patient, loving, compassionate and fulfilled being. It is a journey that I wouldn’t trade for the world. BG

Harleen Laroia is the Founder/CEO Simplysmart Child Care Centre & Montessori 6

BABY | SPRING 2022

BIRTHDAYS | WEDDINGS | CELEBRATIONS

GIRLS & BOYS FORMALWEAR Specializing in 1st Birthday Dresses & Flower Girl Dresses Ready to Wear & Custom Made-to-Order

-0-,2- Į ,2 0'- ı ćąĈŜĊąĉŜĈĈĂĄ ı ',$-İ*'*+'11"0#113.ň!-+ Į lilmissdressup.com

Prevent prenatal infections

rotecting children begins the moment a mother learns she is pregnant. Illnesses can affect children in the womb and expecting parents should be aware of conditions that can affect the health of the fetus, also known as prenatal infections. The organization Group B Strep International says that approximately one in four pregnant women carry GBS, the leading cause of sepsis and meningitis in newborns according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. GBS also can infect babies during pregnancy and the first few months of life. GBS as well as other conditions, such as cytomegalovirus, listeriosis and Zika virus, are serious health problems that can affect a fetus and expecting mothers. Mothers can take various steps to protect themselves and their babies from infectious contagions. Here are some tips for expecting parents. Wash hands often The single best way to prevent contraction and spread of any illness is through handwashing. Use warm water and soap to wash hands before and after certain activities, such as preparing foods, eating, and using the restroom and after coming in contact with surfaces that may be germ-ridden. Cook meat to proper temperatures Use a food thermometer to make sure the internal temperature of meats, poultry and fish are at the recommended

levels for safety. Undercooked foods may contain harmful bacteria, such as listeria and E. coli. Avoid unpasteurized dairy Feta, queso fresco, brie and other soft cheeses should be avoided unless the label specifically mentions pasteurization. Make sure yogurts and milks are pasteurized as well. Skip raw sprouts. Listeria may be found on alfalfa, clover, radish, and mung bean sprouts unless they are thoroughly cooked. Get tested for GBS Doctors can swab you to see if you have this type of bacteria. If they learn you do, they will advise you on how to protect the baby during labor. Stay away from Zika-prone areas Avoid travel to areas of the world with known Zika outbreaks. If a spouse or partner has traveled to these areas, exercise extreme caution during sexual intercourse, as the disease can be transmitted this way as well. Leave cat care to others Dirty cat litter may contain a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis. Let someone else clean and tend to the litter box for the duration of your pregnancy. These are just a few tips to help keep your fetus safe. Expecting parents can discuss other ways with their physicians. BG – Metro Creative

BABY | SPRING 2022

2 4 1

Baby bum 1 | Baby Bum Bubble Bath Turn bath time into an enjoyable bonding experience. Bubbles made with ingredients from the earth and the sea create non-stop fun without tears. Baby Bum Bubble Bath contains therapeutic minerals such as magnesium and calcium to provide healthy skin. A blend of natural ingredients including Monoi coconut oil and hand-picked tiaré flower petals. $12.99 available at well.ca, and amazon.ca 2 | Baby Bum Everyday Lotion Natural Fragrance Ultra-gentle moisturizer with monoi coconut oil, aloe, shea, and cocoa butters. This soothing, moisturizing lotion keeps you soft and smooth. A blend of natural ingredients. Monoi coconut oil, tiaré flower petals are hand-picked, then infused into coconut oil $12.99 available at well.ca, and amazon.ca 3 | Baby Bum Mineral Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 50 This light, non-greasy, moisturizing sunscreen stick protects the skin from harm10 BABY | SPRING 2022

ful UVA/UVB rays using safe minerals. Effortlessly glides on your face, lips, nose, and ears. This 100% mineral-based protection applies and absorbs easily. It provides a non-oily feel and contains coconut oil, shea, and cocoa butter to nourish and hydrate skin $12.99 available at well. ca, and amazon.ca 4 | Baby Bum Shampoo & Wash A foaming wash formulated with coconut oil, sea minerals, banana, aloe, and white ginger. Baby-friendly, ultra-gentle. The foaming, tear-free Shampoo & Wash keeps you clean from head to toe. Baby lotion formulated with the earth’s most precious ingredients to be gentle on their skin. $12.99 available at well.ca, and amazon.ca 5 | Baby Bum Hand Sanitizer This hand sanitizer doesn’t require rinsing and is made using sugar cane alcohol, oil, and fruit extracts. Contains no harsh chemicals and kills 99.9% of germs. Leaves no sticky residue. $5.49 available at well.ca, and amazon.ca BG

Sonday The Label B Y K AT I E C A L L E R Y , F O U N D E R

onday the Label is a line of contemporary maternity and nursing wear, made for modern motherhood. We design beautiful essentials for women at every stage of their motherhood journey, from maternity wear to nursing-friendly sleep and day wear. We also sell bras and beauty products developed specifically for pregnant women. Our goal is to create comfortable, functional, and timeless pieces that women can feel great in during every trimester – and beyond. Maternity wear is a largely outdated category; think frumpy frocks, itchy fabrics, and unflattering designs. Most pieces are designed for one stage at a time, without thinking about its use after the baby arrives. During my first pregnancy, I became the customer experiencing the problem. Trying to find maternity clothes that were stylish, comfortable, and functional was extremely difficult. The trendiest items were the highest priced, while the more affordable options were too floral-y or poorly made. Women live dynamic lives and want clothing that helps them feel like themselves, while also providing that thoughtful element of comfort and movement for a growing bump. So, I set out to create a line of modern maternity clothing that women actually wanted to wear, which led to Sonday The Label. At Sonday The Label, we primarily use Modal, Rayon from Bamboo, Lyocell and Organic Cotton in our garments. These fibres are plant-based, breathable and most are entirely biodegradable.

12 BABY | SPRING 2022

Modal, Rayon and Lyocell are made from beech, bamboo and eucalyptus trees, which regenerate quickly and have a shorter production process. All these fibres are super-soft on mom and baby’s sensitive skin. Modal in particular is water-absorbent and resists piling really well, ensuring your clothing looks good and feels great for years to come. To date, our bestsellers are our Labour & Delivery Gown and our Essential Nursing Dress. The Labour Gown is the perfect piece for Mom to pack in her hospital bag. It’s a super-soft, full-back snap dress that makes your stay more comfortable and discreet. The front snaps enable easy feeding and skin-to-skin contact with the baby. And the Nursing Dress is the nightgown you need to have at home. It’s made from breathable, soft modal and has a clever v-neck design that lets you sleep and feed with ease – at all hours of the night and day. Visit us at sondaythelabel.com BG

SPRING 2022 | BABY 13

The Simplest Baby Book in the World BY MARYLENE VESTERGOM

o, you’re having a baby? Just hearing the news may bring on a panic attack. Or maybe you’re going to your tenth baby shower, and friends and family are just too eager to offer parenting advice. Or perhaps you’re overwhelmed by the self-help books, which may not be easy to understand. After all, you just want the facts, and if someone can give you the crib notes in bullet points – perfect. And if it includes pictures and illustrations, now you’re talking. Well, author Stephen Gross felt the same way. “As a new dad, I didn’t know much about raising kids and didn’t have a strong support group. I found the information out there – books, websites, blogs, videos, etc. – all too dense, overwhelm-

14 BABY | SPRING 2022

ing, and not simple enough for today’s needs.” So Gross, along with a host of experts including moms, dads, nurses, doctors, nannies and The Simplest Baby community – researched and curated the best and the most essential tips and wisdom into The Simplest Baby Book in the World. Your grandmother may have had Dr. Spock, your mother may have sworn by the What to Expect series, but now YOU have your very own illustrated book, written like a Tweet or an Instagrammable post – the perfect “grab-and-do”

guide with all the homework done for you – distilled into the essentials. “Being a gay parent gives me a unique perspective on parenting, and it ultimately brought me to question many of the assumptions and expectations that exist in many traditional families that can adversely impact women,” says Gross. So, in case you think this book is only for moms, Gross ensured that dads could find simple solutions and clever workarounds for everyday baby issues by highlighting them with a Daddy Hack symbol. For instance, if sweet dreams are an issue for you and your baby, an inexpensive way to create a white-noise device is by recording a vacuum, TV or radio static, or a washing machine on your phone. You can also use one of the various music apps to find white noise. As for tips partners can implement to make life easier, Gross suggests: 1. Know that there is no such thing as a perfect parent 2. Understand that breastfeeding is not for everyone 3. Share parenting responsibility and work 4. Lose the fear and ask for help 5. Stop the guilt and stop trying to live up to expectations. No matter what stage you’re at in the parenting cycle, you’ll find The Simplest Baby Book in the World will answer your questions and provide solutions. This “grab-and-do” guide will be at your side every step of the way – whether you want to know what foods can be choking hazards or want an infographic illustrating how to child-proof each room of your house. So, next time you’re invited to a baby shower, or you overhear your friends offering parenting tips to a parent-to-be,

AS A NEW DAD, I DIDN’T KNOW MUCH ABOUT RAISING KIDS AND DIDN’T HAVE A STRONG SUPPORT GROUP. I FOUND THE INFORMATION OUT THERE – BOOKS, WEBSITES, BLOGS, VIDEOS, ETC. – ALL TOO DENSE, OVERWHELMING, AND NOT SIMPLE ENOUGH FOR TODAY’S NEEDS. give them a copy of The Simplest Baby Book in the World and quote the words of author Stephen Gross, “Don’t Panic – You Got This.” BG Connect with Stephen Gross on: simplestbaby.com Facebook: @ SimplestBaby Instagram: @thesimplestbaby

SPRING 2022 | BABY 15

The Ontario Childcare Plan is Here! Access the NEW Ontario Childcare plan with Ontario’s most loved home childcare agency. For over 35 years we’ve been the choice of parents for our expertise, our educational program and because we set the bar high when it comes to the health, safety, and developmental needs of every child.

Wee Watch - Exceptional Homes. Exraordinary Care.

weewatch.com 16 BABY | SPRING 2022

35yrs

SPRING 2022 | BABY 17

3 month old

Baby care

t seems like just yesterday you were bringing your newborn home and suddenly, they are an alert 3 month old baby. A 3 month’s baby care is much different than a newborn’s care. By this age, your baby is growing and developing fast. As they enter a new stage, all their senses are developing. They cry less and vocalize more. Encourage vocal development by singing, talking, blowing raspberries, and making different sounds to them. These 3 month old baby care tips will encourage further language development and increase their verbal communication.

18 BABY | SPRING 2022

As their vision improves, 3 month old babies become more curious about their surroundings. When taking care of a 3 month old baby, face your baby and make eye contact. Provide bright, colourful, age appropriate toys they can play with. Visit different places so your baby can explore other environments. By this age, their tongue has grown bigger and their tastebuds are more sensitive. Your baby will chew, suck and drool more. They start using their oral senses to explore their surroundings so everything goes into the mouth. Safety is important in 3 month baby care to ensure they don’t

FAQs How do you carry a 3 month old baby? Babies can start holding their head up at 3 months however, the muscles are still developing. When carrying your 3-month-old, in your arms over your shoulder or across your chest, or using an infant carrier, always support the head and neck. Can you sit a 3 month old baby? When considering how to take care of your 3-month-old baby while they are sitting, it is important to make sure they are fully supported and secure because your baby cannot sit independently. Use pillows to support your baby when they are on flat, safe surfaces. Use safety straps when sitting your baby in a swing, baby seat, stroller or other furniture.

A 3 MONTH’S BABY CARE IS MUCH DIFFERENT THAN A NEWBORN’S CARE. BY THIS AGE, YOUR BABY IS GROWING AND DEVELOPING FAST put something in their mouth that could cause harm. When taking care of a 3 month old baby, you will notice that they are using their hands more. Offering age appropriate toys they can hold will help develop their motor skills. Keep harmful objects out of reach. BG

Is ﬂight safe for a 3 month old baby? Babies at 3 months of age can fly safely on a plane. When planning your 3-month-old baby care during travel, try to plan around their routine so they are sleeping during most of the flight. Have something for them to suck on like a bottle or pacifier to ease any air pressure in their ears. Make sure your baby is up-todate on their vaccinations. Can a 3 month old watch TV? TV watching is not recommended when taking care of a 3-month-old baby. At this age, a baby cannot comprehend what they are seeing on the screen. Watching TV too early can have negative and long-lasting effects on their language development, attention span, sleep patterns, short-term memory, social development and reading skills. BG SPRING 2022 | BABY 19

20 BABY | SPRING 2022

Educational Toys For Infants & Toddlers Use coupon code CITY10 to get 10% off your next purchase. Valid until Nov. 30, 2022

Call or email us for a free digital catalog

1.800.363.3013 info@thinkamajigs.com Facebook.com/thinkamajigs @thinkamajigs

thinkamajigs.com The Ultimate Ball Gym

For children six months to eight years of age

OUR BALL GYM OFFERS:

Public Play Time Monthly Memberships Summer Camp & Active Parties

North America’s ONLY *OPSKYLU»Z )HSS .`T Open to the public

)L TVYL JVUÄ KLU[ in gym class Practice ball skills!

3615 Laird Rd, Units 15 & 16 Mississauga, ON

905-828-4FUN (4386) www.BallsOfFun.ca Socks are mandatory for everyone!

SPRING 2022 | BABY 21

Make kids’ bedtime a breeze N

ew parents face many obstacles once they leave the hospital and take their children home. Parents often find that sleep schedules are a significant challenge, and one that won’t necessarily vanish as children grow older and become more independent. Adequate sleep is important for any age group, but especially so for developing children. When kids do not get enough sleep, they have a harder time controlling their emotions and they may have difficulty paying attention and learning. Despite that need for sleep, bedtime seems to be the one time during the day when youngsters seem especially needy and resistant to settling down. Patricia Cancellier, a former education director at the Parent Encouragement Program in Kensington, Maryland, says it’s typical for behaviour issues to be more prevalent when separation from parents is imminent, like it is at bedtime. Parents who emphasize consistency with their children’s sleep routine may find that their infants, toddlers, and school-aged children don’t put up too much of a fuss at bedtime. Establish a bedtime that works Figure out how much sleep your child needs and make sure they get to bed early enough to reach that goal each night. The American Academy of Pediatrics of-

fers aged-based sleep guidelines that can be accessed at aap.org. Parents magazine says children’s internal clocks eventually will adjust to the routine if the routine follows a natural and consistent pattern. Start winding down About an hour before bedtime, begin to scale back activities and anything that can rev up energy levels. Signal that bedtime is close Give children a verbal warning or follow a similar routine each day. For young children, signals such as a relaxing bath, songs, hugs, or other physical cues can indicate that bedtime is coming. Reinforce structure Consistency is essential. Talk about routines at other times of the day, and then implement other structured events. This teaches kids to recognize routines throughout their day, making kids more likely to embrace them at bedtime. Offer a snack Some children need more than three meals a day. A light snack before bed can help them stay sated through the night. Good ideas include whole-grain cereal with milk, graham crackers and milk, or a similar carb/protein combination. BG – Metro Creative

22 BABY | SPRING 2022

Scan to get it all ARTICLES EVENTS RECIPES CONTESTS COUPONS RESOURCES BLOGS & MORE!

cityparent.com

M Å Z[ \

?P M ZM 3 QL [ K WU

We are a 3-generation business, specializing in furniture for all ages, and top brand strollers and car seats!

410 Lewis Road, #13 Stoney Creek | 905.560.4311 Babyworlds.com | store@babyworlds.com SPRING 2022 | BABY 23

book

Review

Life After Birth: Portraits of Love and the Beauty of Parenthood. Knix and Carriage House Birth present Life After Birth: Portraits of Love and the Beauty of Parenthood. Readers will encounter stories from everyday citizens and famous people including Amy Schumer, Rocky Barnes, Gabrielle Union-Wade, Eva Longoria, Bozoma Saint John, Kristin Bell, and more! 100% of Knix and Carriage House Birth’s proceeds will be donated to The Black Women’s Health Imperative to support the NOURISH program – a postpartum doula training program created in partnership with Knix that supports the needs of Black birthing families. $60.00 CAD published by Rizzoli New York, New York available at knix.ca 24 BABY | SPRING 2022

The Big Book of Organic by Stephanie Middleberg MS, RD, CDN A collection of natural, organic, and irresistible ba by food recipes for nourishment from infancy through toddlerhood. Here’s how to make nutritious ba by foods with ease, from single-ingredient purees to complete meals the whole family can enjoy. Sweet potato puree, maple glazed salmon, and roasted green beans are just some of the healthy and wholesome recipes included in this ba by food cookbook. This baby food book features an overview of ages, stages, purees, smoothies, finger food, and family fare. Ages Adult. Published by Sonoma Press. Pages 296. Price: $21.99

Mizzie the Kangaroo by Sandra Ebbott Bella-Boo’s best friend Mizzie likes to help her keep active, both indoors and outdoors, by participating in a variety of gender-neutral sport activities. Thick board pages, specially made for little hands with touch and feel components, lead babies and toddlers into a new world of interacting with books and having fun. Ages: 0-3 Publisher: Skebbsys Toy Box Pty Ltd. is the owner of all rights, copyrights & trademarks of the Mizzie the Kangaroo name and illustrations. Pages:. 10 Price: $15.95 CAD HC available online and Toys R Us, mizziethekangaroo.ca Mother and Baby Natural Care by Émilie Hébert A DIY collection of easy-to-follow recipes for making natural care products for babies, new mothers, and expecting mothers. It features 40 original, stressfree recipes for wellness, beauty, and health products (using organic materials which you may already have at home) written by DIY expert, Émilie Hébert under the guidance of natural care midwife, Hélène Boyé. Ages: All. Publisher: Apollo Publishers. Pages:128. Price: $29.99 CDN

A Modern Parents’ Guide to Nursery Rhymes by Jennifer Grifﬁn Griffin’s collection contains more than 70 timeless rhymes. From Humpty Dumpty to the Noble Duke of York, parents will be feeling like experts in no time. You’ll find earworms like “London Bridge,” “The Wheels on the Bus,” and other childhood favorites – plus non-English classics, like “Frère Jacques’’ but that’s not all. The book also includes interesting facts such as “Mary Had a Little Lamb” were the first words ever recorded when Thomas Edison spoke to them into his new recording machine in 1877. Ages – All Ages. Published by Workman Publishing. Pages 192. Price: $19.95 CAD HC Just Go to Bed by Mercer Mayer From the Little Critters series, Just Go to Bed shows our preschool hero unwilling to go to sleep when his father tries to prepare him. Through the course of the book, Little Critter’s understanding father finally succeeds in luring his energetic, imaginative son through bath and pyjama time and into bed. Ages 1-5, Published by Random House Books for Young Readers, Pages 24. $4.99 CDN BG SPRING 2022 | BABY 25

3 1 4

Cool

MUST HAVES

1 | Smart Sock 3 Baby Monitor by Owlet Sleep with ease knowing your baby is safe and sound with the new upgraded Smart Sock 3. This award-winning product measures your baby’s heart rate and oxygen levels to notify parents if something appears wrong. To date, Owlet has helped parents keep more than 500,000 babies safe. This new version accommodates babies from 5 to 30 lbs., has a 16hour battery life and an improved Bluetooth range, among other features. $399. owletcare.ca 2 | VTech® Myla the Monkey Portable Sound Machine Baby Soother With VTech Myla the Monkey Baby Soother, you can help your baby sleep. Myla sings a variety of lullabies and soothing sounds. Flexible tail hooks onto knobs, handle, and more, making it perfect for travel. Cheeks light up for a softglow night light, and a USB rechargeable 26 BABY | SPRING 2022

battery lasts up to 5 hours. Auto shut-off after 60 minutes. $43.99 available at Bed Bath and Beyond 3 | HALO BassiNest Swivel Sleeper Award-winning HALO BassiNest is beloved by parents and nurses for its safety. This is the only bassinet that rotates 360 degrees to keep your newborn close for essential bonding. Mesh walls allow for visibility and ventilation, height adjustment, numerous safety features and soothing nightlight and floor light. Soothing vibration and sounds, auto shut off. $319.99 available at Bed Bath and Beyond 4 | Knix – Maternity Collection – Sizing from S to XXXL+ Joanna Griffiths, Founder and CEO of Knix, shares her list of go-to products that helped during pregnancy and following the birth of her twin girls. This collection consists of the BlissFit Leakproof Nursing Tank, BlissFit Maternity Leggings, Superstretch Boyshort 3

6 5

7 pack, BlissFit Leakproof Nursing Bra Modal Nightgown, and plush slippers size 36-42. $48.00 and up available at knix.ca 5 | Sleep Tracking Video Baby Monitor N211CA by Nanit This smart nursery monitor will let you know everything that happens in your baby’s crib and deliver personalized guidance to help your baby sleep better. The overhead camera allows you to learn all about your baby’s days and nights and tracks all the info to understand sleep patterns, room conditions, etc. You can even get a sleep score to tell how well little one slept. Now that’s parent-friendly technology! $400. Available at thebay.com 6 | Beaba Baby Cook Solo 4 in 1 No microwaves, blenders, or pots to clean! Baby and toddler food can be made from raw chicken, fish, fruits, and veggies in under 20 minutes – 4-in-1

function (steam cook, blend, defrost, reheat). Control the quality of the puree by varying the blend level. Auto shut-off, so you can hold the Baby in one hand and make food with the other – large 4.5 cup cooking bowl capacity. Stainless Steel Water Reservoir. Dishwasher safe steam basket and cooking container. BPA, lead, and phthalate-free. $229.99 available at Bed Bath and Beyond amazon.ca, 7 | Medela Pump in Style Breast Pump The redesigned Pump in Style breast pump is a mix of trusted performance and new technology. Easy to use, portable and effective, the pump offers hospital performance with Maxflow Vacuum Technology providing stimulation for increased milk flow. The Personal Fit breast shields allow moms to express milk 11.8 percent faster. And the compact design means you can Pump in Style anywhere! $375. medela.ca SPRING 2022 | BABY 27

9 8

10 8 | Hello Bello Diaper Co-founded by Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard, Hello Bello is carefully crafted with babies, parents, and the planet in mind. These disposable diapers are a modern-day convenience for many parents, and they are of premium quality made from a mix of plant-based and traditional materials. The benefits of Hello Bello diapers are super soft, absorbent with wetness indicator, hypoallergenic, which contain no lotions, fragrance, phthalates, or latex, stylish, 100% chlorine-free and Eco-friendly. Pricing Varies hellobello.ca 9 | Philips Avent Fast Bottle Warmer This #1 best baby bottle warmer is perfect for warming milk and baby food. The small design can fit on your nightstand for those nighttime feeds – Heats 4 oz of milk in 3 minutes. No hot spots, convenient defrost setting for breast milk and food. $79.99 available at Bed Bath & Beyond, Walmart.ca, Best Buy Canada, and amazon.ca 28 BABY | SPRING 2022

10 | Duo Diaper Bag by Skip Hop A top-selling diaper bag with textured fabric in versatile neutral hues. Convenience is the hallmark of this diaper bag. This bag has it all with side bottle pockets, multiple zippered compartments, and an easy-access tech pocket. Its spacious main compartment holds up to 15-inch laptops. Attach the bag to your stroller with the shuttle clips or use the shoulder strap or tote. Includes a cushioned changing pad BPA-Free, Phthalate-Free $89.99 available at skiphop.com, chapters.indigo.ca bedbathandbeyond.ca 11| Braun Thermo Scan A household must-have. The Braun ThermoScan 7 Ear Thermometer senses the infrared heat of the eardrum and its surrounding tissues. Since the eardrum directly connects to the brain’s temperature control center, the ear accurately reflects the body’s core temperature. The ear can immediately feel the rise in temperature, and therefore, the ear can be used to measure temperature accurately. $89.99 available, chapters.indigo.ca, bedbathandbeyond.ca walmart.ca

15 14

12 | Munchkin Powdered Formula Dispenser Combo-Pack A make life easy essential. Suitable for all brands of bottles and formula. Ideal for short outings and trips. Each container holds 8 ounces and three separated chambers. It’s perfect for home or daycare. Dishwasher safe and BPA free. Prices vary from $7.99 and Up, available at well.ca, walmart.ca, amazon.ca 13 | One Step™ Baby Bottle Sterilizer by Baby Brezza You won’t want, to not want, this mother’s helper. The One Step Sterilizer Dryer sterilizes and dries baby bottles and pump parts, and it kills 99.9% of germs by using natural steam. Holds six bottles, pump parts and accessories from any brand – 4 options of use. $129.99 available at amazon.ca, bedbathandbeyond.ca 14 | Bouncer Balance Soft by Baby Bjorn Bouncer Balance Soft is an ergonomic baby bouncer. The Baby can play

or rest safely. The Baby’s movements cause the bouncer to rock gently. The fitted fabric seat is comfortable and properly supports your Baby’s back, neck and head. Three positions, no batteries required. The rocking motion develops your Baby’s balance and motor skills. The fabric seat can be easily removed and washed in warm water (40°C). Easy to fold flat and convenient to carry and takes up very little space when folded. $249.99 available at babybjorn.ca, amazon.ca 15 | Wet/Dry Bag by Bumkins Bumkins Wet/Dry Bags feature two compartments: one for dry items and one for wet items. Waterproof fabric and heat-sealed seams hold moisture inside the wet section of the bag while keeping your dry section dry. Wet/Dry bags are ideal for swimming gear, gym gear, diaper bags, cloth diapers, potty training and more. Sized at 12.5” x 16” with a snap handle.$23.74 available at bumkins.com, amazon.ca BG SPRING 2022 | BABY 29

Nourishing Baby Face Cream $38.00 CAD

Baby Shampoo and Body Wash $24.00 CAD

Evereden products for baby

Soothing Baby Massage Oil $31.00 CAD

skincare line “Made by Moms in Medicine™.” developed by a team of world-class dermatologists who are themselves mothers. Non-toxic plantbased formulas including premium ingredients such as cold-processed sunflower seed oil, centella asiatica, grapeseed oil, marula, and rosehip oils. Evereden has a strict non-inclusion policy for over 2,000 questionable ingredients that might cause skin irritation or sensitivity. All products available at evereden.com and Sephora Canada. BG

30 BABY | SPRING 2022

Baby Lip Balm $12.00 CAD

Are You Currently Pregnant?

Do you want to participate in a study on postpartum blues?

This is a research study looking at the effect of dietary supplements to reduce the intensity of postpartum blues, as a way to help prevent postpartum depression.

You might be eligible, if: <RX DUH WR \HDUV ROG <RX DUH LQ D JRRG SK\VLFDO DQG PHQWDO KHDOWK <RX DUH SUHJQDQW <RX DUH QRW WDNLQJ DQ\ PHGLFDWLRQV WKDW DIIHFW \RXU PRRG Compensation provided 3OHDVH FDOO 416-535-8501 x 31697 2U HPDLO postpartum.supplements@camh.ca 9LVLW postpartumsupplementstudy.com

)RU LQIRUPDWLRQ DERXW SURJUDPV DQG VHUYLFHV DW &$0+ SOHDVH YLVLW ZZZ FDPK FD RU FDOO RU 9HUVLRQ F 0DUFK 5(%

<RXU &KLOG V -RXUQH\ 6WDUWV +HUH

3URJUDPV Toddler (15 months - 2.5 yrs) Preschool (2.5 - 4 yrs) Kindergarten Grades 1 - 3

ȒɖɎǣȷɖƺ ƺƏȸǼɵ ǼƺƏȸȇǣȇǕ ȵȸǣɮƏɎƺ ɀƬǝȒȒǼ ǼȒƬƏɎƺƳ ƏɎ (Ȓȇ xǣǼǼɀ ۭ çȒȸǸ xǣǼǼɀ

2XU 'LIIHUHQFH Enriched & Balanced Program Nurturing Environment Daily Digital Communication Organic & Nutritious Meals Certified Educators Newly Renovated School & Playground Character & Self-Care Skills Development Air Purification System for a Safe Environment

(416) 510 - 2500

44 Upjohn Road North York, ON M3B 2W1

www.laurelschool.ca admin@laurelschool.ca @thelaurelschool

([SHULHQFH 7KH /DXUHO 6FKRRO GLIIHUHQFH DQG MRLQ RXU /DXUHO IDPLO\