Piedmont Parent's 2013 Baby Guide

baby guide

Free

2013

for 0-36 months

the triad’s most trusted resource for expectant and new parents

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create a nursery you’ll love for years to come

+ 160 Local Services & Supplies cloth diapering: the good, the bad and the ugly

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Women’s Services

A lifetime of

exceptional care for women.

Having a baby is a very special event. That’s why our doctors and certified nursemidwives do everything possible to make the occasion safe and comfortable for mothers and their new arrivals. At Women’s Hospital, you’ll find the ideal combination of experience, technology and personal attention.

Our comprehensive care includes Maternal Fetal Medicine consultations to help determine what’s best for you and your baby. Other special services include cord blood banking, water births, all private rooms and family-centered care.

We’re prepared for delivery “surprises.” Babies who arrive too early get the highest level of attention in our Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. By expecting the unexpected, we have more ways to make each delivery the exceptional event it should be.

CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE | BARIATRICS | CANCER CARE | EMERGENCY CARE | HEART & VASCULAR | NEUROSCIENCES | ORTHOPEDICS | CONEHEALTH.COM

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Publisher | Sharon Havranek shavranek@charlotteparent.com General Manager/Editor | Myra Wright Phone: 336-983-4789 • Fax: 336-983-2378 editor@piedmontparent.com Associate Editor/Web editor | Shannon Koontz skoontz@piedmontparent.com assistant Editor | Eleanor-Scott Davis esdavis@piedmontparent.com Art Director | Renée Canada artdirector@piedmontparent.com Copy Editor | Tammy Holoman Sales 336-983-4789 • advertising@piedmontparent.com media consultants Tyler Beyea | tbeyea@piedmontparent.com Amy Grove | agrove@piedmontparent.com Amanda Kirk | akirk@piedmontparent.com Business Office Manager | Kara Lynn Mann 704-248-5210 • Toll Free: 866-932-6459 karalynn@charlotteparent.com Distribution Phone: 336-983-4789 • Fax: 336-983-2378 Piedmont Parent reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the publication’s standard. Submissions are welcome, but the publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited material. Piedmont Parent does not endorse or assume responsibility for information, products, services or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. Copyright 2013 by Carolina Parenting, Inc.

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baby guide 2013

What’s Inside!

2

6

Beyond the Baby Book Fun ways to document your infant’s first year

10

Birthing Facilities in the Triad

12

Diapering Decisions Considering cloth? It might be easier than you think.

16

Piedmont Parent P.O. Box 530 King, NC 27021 Toll-Free: 866-932-6459 • piedmontparent.com

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Decorating the Nursery Hottest trends for baby’s room

19 Piedmont Parent is published monthly

by Carolina Parenting, Inc. Circulation 31,000.

Printed in the USA, Evergreen Printing Co.

20 Things to Ask Your Doctor During Pregnancy Top questions from the experts

Baby Guide Resources A comprehensive guide to Triad organizations that assist expectant and new parents

baby guide

free

2013

for 0-36 months

the triad’s most trusted resource for expectant and new parents

26 Doula Support

8 benefits during labor

30

Save Big on Baby Gear Helpful tips for the budget conscious parent

32

Business Directory

a publication of

piedmont

create a nursery you’ll love for years to come

parent piedmontparent.com

+ 160 local services & supplies

cloth diapering: the good, the bad and the ugly

sponsored by

Miles Glover, 12 months, from High Point photographed by Adam Mowery. piedmontparent.com

| 2013 baby Guide

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20 Questions to ask during pregnancy

By Heidi Smith Luedtke Frequent doctor’s visits give momsto-be many opportunities to talk with their health-care providers.

And an ongoing dialogue is the best way to ensure you get excellent care for yourself and your baby.

Unfortunately, after vital signs and basic measurements, there may be little time to talk. When your doctor asks, “Do you have any questions?” you may freeze up and forget what you wanted to know. No worries. We polled the experts to glean 20 great questions to ask your provider. Here are their answers.

1. Is my weight healthy?

“Obesity increases your risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, diabetes and high blood pressure,” says Dr. Robert Atlas chair of obstetrics and gynecology at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore.

Get personalized advice about how much weight you should gain (or lose).

2. How can I stop smoking?

Use of cigarettes doubles the risk of miscarriage, says Atlas. Your provider can recommend behavior change strategies — and local support groups — to help you quit.

3. Do I need new meds?

Some prescription drugs increase the risk of birth defects, says internist Dr. Marie Savard, author of “Ask Dr. Marie: What Women Need to Know about Hormones, Libido, and the Medical

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Problems No One Talks About.”

Alert your OB to any medications you’re taking. She may switch you to something safer.

mumps and varicella (chicken pox) may be harmful during pregnancy.

Speak up to make sure you’re safe.

4. Am I at risk for gestational diabetes (GD)?

6. Should I continue to see my general practitioner and/or specialists?

Moms who get GD are seven times more likely to develop type-2 diabetes post-pregnancy. If you have family risk factors, ask for a hemoglobin A1c blood test, says Savard. Hormonal changes in pregnancy can trigger hidden diabetes.

“Someone has to take the lead on medical care during pregnancy,” says Savard, “and it’s usually the OB/GYN.” But don’t ignore other providers.

A team approach gives you more comprehensive care.

5. Should I get immunized?

7. Am I drinking enough?

Your physician may recommend shots for the flu, hepatitis B and tetanus, especially if you’re at risk. Livevirus vaccines and those for measles,

“Fluids transport nutrition to your baby, prevent preterm labor and minimize nausea, bloating and headaches,” says women’s health nurse

practitioner Camilla Bicknell, RNC, MSN, co-author of “The Pregnancy Power Workbook.” Pale yellow urine is a sign you’re drinking plenty. Not sure? Ask.

8. Can I book a longer appointment?

“Patients tend to minimize what they need instead of asking for extra time,” says Savard. The receptionist isn’t just a gatekeeper, she’s an ally. Let her know you have several concerns to discuss.

9. Should I change my workout routine?

Kickboxing and ice-skating are out, because of the risk of belly trauma or falling down. But common sense isn’t enough. “Certain pregnancy-related conditions may worsen with exercise,” says Dr. James Betoni, co-author of “The Pregnancy Power Workbook.” Looser tendons and ligaments make pregnant women more prone to sports injuries. Get a fitness prescription.

10. What are the signs of miscarriage?

“Although miscarriages are common, they can be frightening, sad, and potentially dangerous,” says Bicknell. Get smart and seek early medical care at your doctor’s office or the emergency room to avoid additional complications.

11. Would you (please) explain my test results?

Write it down

Studies show 50 percent of patients forget what the doctor told them to do after their appointment, says Dr. Marie Savard, author of “Ask Dr. Marie: What Women Need to Know about Hormones, Libido, and the Medical Problems No One Talks About.” The solution? Bring along a health buddy who can take notes and give moral support.

deal so you don’t stay up all night worrying about an early delivery.

13. When should I go to the hospital?

Your caregiver may want you admitted right away if he’s concerned about preterm birth or labor and delivery complications. Otherwise, you may want to stay home during early labor, so you can eat, drink and do as you please.

14. What are my pain control options?

If your results don’t make sense, ask for an explanation or retest. Shalini Wittstruck, a national ambassador for the March of Dimes, was assured that she wouldn’t go into preterm labor based on the results of a fetal fibronectin test. “I wish that I would have followed my gut and pushed back on the test result,” says Wittestruck, whose son was born 10 weeks premature. “Had I sought a second opinion, the preterm birth might have been avoided.”

A good pain control plan takes your medical situation and preferences into account. New mom Cody Gredler found out placing an epidural can be challenging for patients with minor scoliosis, like herself. “My epidural had to be redone three times, which was not a barrel of laughs,” she says. “When it was finally put in correctly, it was bliss.”

12. What are the signs of early, false and real labor?

Every hospital has its own guidelines, says Atlas, and some won’t administer an epidural before you’re dilated to 4 centimeters. If you wait too long, the anesthesiologist may be busy in the operating room when you need relief. Get intel from your labor nurse.

She knows the system.

Braxton Hicks contractions are common in the third trimester, when your uterus is training for the big event.

Learn the difference between false labor and the real

15. When should I ask for anesthesia?

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| 2013 baby Guide

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What next?

Sometimes even the best questions don’t yield the answers you seek. If you don’t get a satisfying response: ■ Ask again. It’s possible your provider was distracted or didn’t understand your query.

■ Find a fill-in. Other office staff — including nurses and midwives — may have more time to address questions.

■ See a specialist. Your provider may be uncomfortable giving advice outside her area of expertise.

■ Say goodbye. A practitioner who consistently brushes your concerns aside isn’t in your corner. Find a new provider.

Your well-being is worth the hassle.

16. Who will attend my birth?

Find out who is on call when your primary healthcare provider is off, says Atlas. Delivery-day surprises add unnecessary stress.

17. Could you recommend a lactation specialist?

17 percent of moms who wanted to breastfeed quit in the first four weeks, because of sore nipples, concerns about milk supply or latching difficulties. Consult a pro for pointers.

18. Should I restrict my activities?

exercise and sex. Nurture healthy (and reasonable) expectations.

19. How do I care for my wounds?

If you had tearing during delivery or have stitches from an episiotomy or c-section, infection prevention is top priority. Learn how to clean and soothe your wounds, and when you should get a checkup.

20. What are my contraception options?

Ovulation is typically suspended for moms who breastfeed more than 6 times per day, but there are exceptions, says Atlas. Ask about birth control before you’re in the mood.

The adrenalin rush of new motherhood may cause you to do too much too soon. Before you head home with your newborn, find out whether you should limit

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Heidi Smith Luedtke is a psychologist, freelance writer and mom of two. For more information, visit HeidiLuedtke.com.

Leaders in Allergy & Asthma Care

Whooping cough makes a comeback, pregnant women urged to get vaccinated

Advance • Winston-Salem • Kernersville • Mt. Airy • N. Wilkesboro

Breathe Better, Live Better. We Can Help.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is urging women in their last three months of pregnancy to get vaccinated against the whooping cough, after seeing the biggest resurgence in newborns in more than 50 years.

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is highly contagious and can be deadly in infants. The disease gets its name from the “whooping” sound that children make as they gasp for air in between coughing fits.

Many of the cases health officials are seeing are of infants two months and younger, who are too young to get vaccinated. More than a third of newborns diagnosed with whooping cough were infected by their mothers.

— Shannon Koontz

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| 2013 baby Guide

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Beyond the Baby Book Fun ways to document your baby’s first year

By Katrina Tauchen

Baby’s first year is filled with milestones and memories — the first smile, the first tooth — maybe even the first steps or words. As parents, we want to document as much as we can because we know how quickly these special moments pass.

Documenting these memorable times is often easier said than done.

Ways parents can capture the quickly changing early months and years of a child’s life is to “take lots of pictures, save their memorabilia and keep a little calendar or journal of all the things that they are feeling or experiencing,” suggests Judy Gallagher, a Creative Memories scrapbooking consultant in Raleigh.

Feel like a tall order?

Fortunately, with the help of local services, creative products and online resources, documenting baby’s first year can be easier and more fun and individualized than standard, fill-in-the-blank baby books might lead you to believe.

Whether you’re a tech-savvy parent with digital design chops or a hands-on crafter with creativity to spare, there’s a method to suit your style and help you skillfully document that precious first year.

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Picture It A year in photos: Babies change in the blink of an eye, and there’s no easier way to see that than through photos. “Photographs are a moment in time captured forever,” says Nicole Rogers, a family and baby photographer and mother of one in Charlotte. “We can look back at them and remember what our children looked like at 6 months old, how they used to fit inside a basket or a chair.”

To capture the changes, take a photo of your baby once a month (or once a week if you’re feeling ambitious) in the same colored outfit and in the same location, and by the end of the year, you’ll have an amazingly visual reminder of how much your child has grown.

To note the specific months, weeks or milestones, make custom cards to place beside your baby in each photo.

If you’re tech-savvy, skip the cards

com offer similar services, as do retailers such as Kinkos, Walgreens and CVS. Shuttercal.com, another digital option, allows users to upload a photo each day, then organize the images in a calendar format.

and layer text over the photos using Photoshop or another photo-editing program.

Online retailers also offer customized monthly bodysuits in corresponding sizes. You can even download free iron-on templates to craft the outfits yourself at marthastewart.com/857145/ numbered-baby-bodysuits.

Milestone Baby Cards also make it easier to document those important firsts. Thirty illustrated cards note major milestones such as baby’s first tooth, birthday and word. Just have your baby sit next to or hold the card while you snap the correlating photo ($24; shop.mortimersnodgrass. com and search for Milestone Cards).

Craft It Personalized pages: Scrapbooking your baby’s milestone moments can be labor-intensive, but the end result is a detailed and personalized product your child will enjoy for years to come.

“I started scrapbooking when my son was 6 months old,” Gallagher says. “I probably took a picture of him every day that first year. It is so special to go back and not only see the facts, like how much he weighed and when he took his first steps, but how we felt along the way.”

While scrapbooking can take up a lot of time, Tracy Gilley, owner of Scrapbook Traditions in WinstonSalem, says that might be just what a new mom needs. “Scrapbooking is a huge stress reliever, and ‘me time’ is vital, especially to new moms,” she says.

Customized calendar: Use photos taken from each of your baby’s first 12 months to create a calendar for the next year. To make a calendar by hand, start with a plain spiral monthly calendar, then cut out and glue photos to the pages above each of the corresponding months.

To design the calendar digitally, Apple users can use iPhoto to select a group of photos and create a personalized calendar through the program itself. Add notes to special dates and click to purchase when your design is complete.

(Prices start at $19.99.) Snapfish. com, Shutterfly.com and Vistaprint.

Getting help: Parents who feel overwhelmed but still want to scrapbook the memories can take advantage of Scrapbook Traditions “scrap-for-hire” service.

“We have a lot of new moms who

hire us to scrapbook that first hectic year and then continue what we have begun for them on their own as their lives adjust,” says Gilley.

The full-service shop also offers customized papers, one-on-one appointments and baby showers during which every guest creates a spread for the mom-to-be.

Creative memorabilia Looking for a unique way to preserve special milestones and moments? The Patchwork Bear makes one-of-a-kind memory quilts and patchwork bears from outgrown baby clothes. Just send six to 10 outfits to the company’s headquarters in Princeton, N.J., and allow two to four weeks for completion and delivery. ($98; thepatchworkbear. com) The Paloma Poster is a fun, graphic way to chart facts and figures that make up your baby’s first year, such as head-circumference comparisons to favorite foods, depicted in line graph form. ($150, $45 for a standard milestone poster; strangebirdy.com)

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Expert tips for photographing babies Nicole Rogers, a family and baby photographer and mother of one based in Charlotte, offers advice for capturing baby’s biggest milestone moments.

I started scrapbooking when my son was 6 months old. I probably took a picture of him every day that first year. It is so special to go back and not only see the facts, like how much he weighed and when he took his first steps, but how we felt along the way.

Judy Gallagher, a Creative Memories scrapbooking consultant in Raleigh

■ Begin before baby arrives: “A baby bump is so beautiful and a wonderful and exciting time for first-time parents,” Rogers says, adding that maternity sessions are ideal during the third trimester between 29-35 weeks.

For busy parents, Creative Memories also offers quick-books with predecorated pages, stickers and accents to help simplify the process.

■ Mark the important milestones: Rogers recommends having your newborn photographed within his or her first 10 days.

“They change so much each and every day,” she says, “so it’s important to capture their first days of life.” From there, Rogers advises photographing baby when she sits up on her own for the first time, when she begins crawling and again at age 1.

Apps: Technology-based baby books are perfect for on-thego parents who frequently use smartphones or tablet computers.

Emmbook for Baby allows users to record milestones through text and photos, then share them electronically with family and friends. It also works as a diary for feedings, sleep, diaper changes and more (99 cents; available for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad, version 3.1.3 or later). Baby Book for Android (free; requires Android version 1.5 or later) and Baby Milestones (free; requires Android version 2.1 or later) offer similar features. These apps allow you to manage details about your child, add events, browse your photo gallery to select pictures to share and more.

■ Get on baby’s level: Keep in mind the age and attention span of your photo subject.

“Talk about things that interest them,” Rogers says. “Make them feel comfortable and allow them to be themselves, play and imagine.”

■ Think about scale: Photographing your baby in the same outfit or on the same piece of furniture over a period of time gives a clear visual for growth. “I became a mom this year, and one of the first images I have of [my son] is of him laying on this chair,” Rogers says. “He looked so tiny. He will be 10 months tomorrow, and I plan on having him photographed on that same chair to show scale — and how much my chunky monkey has changed.”

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Digitize It

Digital baby books: This hightech spin on traditional baby books allows users to import their own photos into professionally designed pages and layouts.

Although some versions and templates are more customizable than others, all are available to

print in hard or soft cover and come in various sizes. Shutterfly. com, Snapfish.com, Mixbook.com and Vistaprint.com all offer babyspecific books and themes. (Prices vary, depending on the book’s size, number of pages and cover selection.)

Numerous blog sites also offer customized digital baby book options at varying prices, featuring original templates with printable pages, writable PDFs or InDesign documents. Some to try are: On the Day I Was Born via Life as You Live It (lifeasyouliveit. com/blog/index.php/shop), Chalkboard Baby Book Template via Hanna Mac (blog.hannamac. com/purchase), Chevron Baby Book Template via Hanna Mac (blog.hannamac.com/chevronbaby-book-template), Free DIY Baby Book via Young House Love (younghouselove.com/2010/06/ something-free-five-lifesavers).

“We are the historians of our families,” Gilley says. “It is vitally important that we preserve and document these most precious, important times of our lives.”

Katrina Tauchen is a freelance writer, editor and new mom who lives in Durham. She holds a graduate degree from the Missouri School of Journalism and blogs at splashofsomething.com.

Looking for ways to stretch every dollar?

PiedmontParent.com’s blog, The Frugal Family, can help you do just that. Read The Frugal Family for savvy shopping tips, local bargains and advice for saving your family money.

We also want to hear from you! Did you spot great deal? Save a ton of money at the grocery store or want to share advice for landing a great bargain? Drop us a line at frugalfamily@piedmontparent.com. If we publish your tip, you’ll automatically be entered into a monthly giveaway.

Go to www.PiedmontParent.com > Community > Blogs > The Frugal Family

Study shows stressed infant girls could become depressed and anxious teenagers In females, stress as an infant could lead to anxiety and depression later in life, according to a study published in the journal, Nature Neuroscience.

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison followed 57 young adults who were born around 1990, and their mothers. The study originally focused on the stress levels of the mothers, but over time, evolved into research on the biological effects on the children and how they internalized the stress.

Researchers first measured the stress levels of the mothers and the children.

Children with high cortisol levels (indicates high stress) at 4½ were again tested at age 18 using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Researchers saw in the MRI scans that in the female subjects, in particular, there were lower levels of connectivity between the amygdala (associated with the perception of stress) and the prefrontal cortex (helps to regulate emotion). Interviews with the girls also indicated that these same subjects had higher levels of depression and anxiety.

Of the male subjects with high cortisol levels, their brain scans as adolescents did not show the same changes as in the girls’ scans.

The researchers aren’t clear if the difference between the male and female subjects has to do with hormones, or if the brains of the teenage boys with high cortisol had been changed in some other way that wasn’t uncovered in this study. The study’s authors hope future research in this area will turn up ways in which these changes can be prevented.

— Shannon Koontz

The Piedmont’s Premiere Newborn Photographer capturing all the perfection of your tiniest new loves Also offering Maternity, Birth, & Baby’s First Year Packages

Visit us at www.heathermcginnisphotography.com/babyguide for a special offer!

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Birthing Centers Facility & Address

Phone Number & Website

Tours

Amenities

Alamance Regional Medical

www.armc.com 336-538-7000

Call 336-536-7362 to schedule a tour.

■ private labor and delivery suites

Center — The Birthplace

■ Duke University neonatologists

at Alamance Regional

and perinatologists on site for high-

1240 Huffman Mill Road,

risk care

Burlington

■ rooming-in option for newborns ■ Level II / Level III Neonatal Nursery ■ certified lactation consultants ■ fetal echocardiography ■ free mini-massage for new mothers ■ pregnancy and parenting classes ■ newborn photography ■ online nursery ■ physician referral service

Forsyth Medical Center —

www.forsythmedicalcenter.org

Sara Lee Center

336-718-3780

Call 336-718-5000 to register.

■ second largest birthing center in N.C.

for Women’s Health

■ Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

3333 Silas Creek Parkway,

birthing suites

Winston-Salem

■ mother/baby post unit ■ Antepartum Unit for women who experience complications during pregnancy or birth ■ The Nursing Mother’s Center ■ newborn nursery ■ online nursery ■ rooming-in option for newborns ■ family tours ■ parenting and childbirth classes ■ yoga for childbirth classes ■ newborn photography

High Point Regional

www.highpointregional.com

Health System —

336-878-6000

Call 336-878-6888 for tour times and details.

■ all-female staff ■ childbirth suites

The Women’s Center

■ newborn nursery

601 N. Elm St., High Point

■ private waiting rooms ■ parenting and childbirth classes ■ rooming-in option for newborns ■ certified lactation consultants ■ family tours ■ online nursery ■ newborn photography

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Facility & Address

Phone Number & Website

Tours

Amenities

Lexington Memorial Hospital

www.lexingtonmemorial.com

Call 336-238-4770 to

■ expanded labor, delivery

250 Hospital Drive, Lexington

336-248-5161

schedule a tour.

and recovery suites with private whirlpool baths ■ board-certified lactation consultant ■ nurses certified in Neonatal Resuscitation and CPR ■ rooming-in option for newborns ■ gourmet steak dinner to celebrate baby’s arrival ■ breastfeeding classes ■ childbirth and parenting classes ■ sibling classes ■ online nursery

Randolph Hospital

www.randolphhospital.org

Third Monday of each

■ family-centered maternity care

364 White Oak St., Asheboro

336-629-8817

month at 5:30 p.m. Call

■ maternity suites

336-629-8817 to register.

■ Level II Nursery ■ childbirth and parenting classes ■ rooming-in option for newborns ■ online nursery

The Women’s Hospital

www.conehealth.com

Every Thursday at 7:30 p.m.

■ a 134-bed hospital for women and

of Greensboro

336-832-6500

and on the second Sunday

infants

801 Green Valley Road,

of each month at 4 p.m.

■ Level II and Level III Neonatal

Greensboro

No registration required.

Intensive Care Unit ■ family-centered maternity care ■ maternal and infant specialists for difficult pregnancies ■ high-risk obstetrical program ■ 24-hour, in-house anesthesia care, including epidural services ■ rooming-in option for newborns ■ inpatient and outpatient ■ certified lactation consultants ■ parenting and childbirth classes ■ family tours ■ physician referral service ■ newborn photography

piedmontparent.com

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Diapering Decisions Considering cloth? It might be easier than you think.

By Katrina Tauchen Nearly 3,800.

That’s the estimated number of diaper changes the average baby will go through in his or her first 2.5 years of life. Few baby items compare to diapers in terms of frequency of use or level of necessity, but like most things related to baby care, it isn’t cut and dry, and the biggest debate centers on one simple question: cloth or disposable?

The cloth resurgence Cloth ruled the market until after World War II, when Pampers began banking on post-war consumers’ desire for all things new, fast and convenient. By the end of the 1970s, Pampers was worth more than $1 billion, and today, most estimates credit disposables with about 96 percent of the diaper market. Convenience won parents over to disposables in decades past, but cloth diapers have made impressive strides.

According to the Real Diaper Industry Association, cloth diapers saw a 30 percent increase in sales between 2000 and 2007.

“The trend is cloth,” says Fatimah Faraj, store manager of Sweetbottoms Baby Boutique in Raleigh. “A lot of people are figuring out that we need to be more green and earth friendly and do what’s best for our children.”

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Although numerous studies show the environmental aspect of the disposable vs. cloth debate is a wash when comparing the tangible waste of disposables to the water and energy used to launder cloth diapers, clothusers note that trading in the nonbiodegradable disposables benefits more than the environment. “You can’t look at a package of diapers and see what’s in them,” Faraj says. “Many of them have chemicals that aren’t things we would choose to put against our

children’s skin if we knew they were there.”

There are cost savings as well.

Outfitting a child in disposables will run parents thousands of dollars. “For about $300 to $500 you can buy all the diapers your child will need from birth through potty training, and then you can use [the cloth diapers] on additional children,” says Christina Foster, owner of Hip Bottoms Cloth Diapers in Winston-Salem. “Also, their bums are just so much cuter in cloth.”

For about $300 to $500 you can buy all the diapers your child will need from birth through potty training, and then you can use [the cloth diapers] on additional children. Also, their bums are just so much cuter in cloth.

Christina Foster, owner of Hip Bottoms Cloth Diapers in Winston-Salem

For Lindsey and Rich Kenny, Durham parents of a 6-month-old son, the financial savings were a big motivator.

“I remember the first diaper run I made when Asa was 2 weeks old,” Lindsey says. “I came home having spent $100 on diapers that lasted us one month. That’s when I was able to convince Rich of the financial benefit to cloth diapering.”

“I feel like Asa does much better with cloth diapers,” Rich adds. “You have natural fiber against his skin versus synthetic chemicals. I feel like he’s a happier baby because of it.”

What about the mess?

Environmental and cost issues aside, many parents’ reluctance to make the switch lies in a single fear — the mess.

Rachel Noto, Raleigh mother of 4-year-old and 18-monthold daughters, used disposables with her first daughter but transitioned to cloth when looking for something that wouldn’t irritate her baby’s sensitive skin. “It wasn’t as hard as I thought it was going to be,”

she says. “I was anticipating a lot of stress as far as laundry was concerned, but you pretty much live in the laundry room anyway when you have little kids. ... They’re practically as easy as using disposables.”

Rich Kenny agrees. “It’s a lot easier than I thought it would be,” he says. “It’s not too gross or too difficult to spray off the diapers before you throw them in the laundry.”

Fortunately, cloth diapering doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Noto’s family does what she refers to as “cloth diapering light.” Although the majority of the diapering for her 18-month-old is cloth, they do use disposables when they have a babysitter or go to church. Many daycares aren’t cloth-diaper friendly, either, so disposables come into play.

The leap is the hardest part, says Priscilla LeCompte, co-owner of All About Baby Boutique in Greensboro. “Even if you only get four [cloth] diapers and are still using disposables at other times, trying it is the best way to figure

Diapering defined The choice to go with cloth is just the first in a line of diapering decisions. Fatimah Faraj, store manager of Sweetbottoms Baby Boutique in Raleigh, defines the terms.

All-in-ones: Both the diaper and diaper cover are in one piece. You put it on and take it off like a disposable. How many you’ll need: 24 All-in-twos: The two pieces — cover and diaper — are separate, with the diaper fitting into the cover. The diaper is changed every time, but the cover can be reused about two to three times. How many you’ll need: 24 diapers, eight to 10 diaper covers Pockets: This style features a cover with a fleece piece inside that keeps babies dry, into which you stuff a diaper. You change the whole system each time. How many you’ll need: 24, purchased all together Fitteds: Fitteds are an inside piece used mainly for over night, and it’s especially good for heavy-wetters. The fitted is used underneath a cover. How many you’ll need: two to three Basic prefolds: These are large pieces of fabric that have been prefolded, though it will take additional folding and pinning to make them fit your baby. Prefolds are used with a cover. How many you’ll need: 24 prefolds, eight to 10 covers Traditional flats: This is the old-fashioned cloth diaper to a tee: a large piece of fabric you fold and pin to fit your baby. It is used with a cover. How many you’ll need: 24 flats, eight to 10 covers

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By the numbers 3,796: Number of disposable diapers the average child will use in his or her first years of life 24: Number of cloth diapers a baby needs in his or her first years of life 40.3 million: Number of disposable diapers used every day in the United States 96: Percentage of American babies who wear disposable diapers (compared to 6 percent in China and 2 percent in India) $1,000: Average cost for a baby’s first year of disposable diapers $700-$800: Average cost for a baby’s first year of cloth diapers $700-$800: Average cost for 2.5 years of cloth diapering $2,500: Average cost for 2.5 years of disposable diapers Sources: Consumer Reports, ABC News, Mother Jones, BabyCenter.com

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out if it is right for you and what fits well for you and your family.”

Foster emphasizes, “It is a very personal decision and one that is different for each family.”

Starting with cloth “Find somebody who used them who can help you navigate,” says Noto, who started the Facebook group Triangle Cloth Diapering. Noto also credits the staff at Sweetbottoms Baby Boutique, The Diapering Doula in Morrisville and The Red Hen in Chapel Hill. “The whole [cloth diapering] community is really supportive,” she says. “I was worried that I wasn’t as hard core as some who use cloth diapers, but it doesn’t matter whether you do both cloth and some disposable.”

Faraj says Sweetbottoms recommends starting with 24 diapers, which allows for washing every other day. Other startup supplies include two wet bags or pale liners for the home, which allows one to wash while the other is used; two wet bags for the diaper bag; cloth-diaper-safe detergent; and cloth-diaper-safe diaper cream. Once babies are on solid foods, parents should also consider a diaper sprayer and/or

flushable, biodegradable liners.

“These aren’t your grandma’s diapers,” LeCompte says. “The most popular styles are definitely the pocket where you stuff the absorbent material into the diaper and top stays dry against baby’s skin. We also have people that love the all-in-one where the cloth diaper is almost like a disposable, without the chemicals and throwing it away, so you use it and wash it.”

Finding what fits Ultimately, when it comes to diapers, it’s about finding what works for you, your budget and your family. If, in the end, the choice is cloth, remember that there’s a learning curve, but the reward — and savings — can be sweet.

“I remember Rich coming home one day and saying, ‘Can’t we use cloth wipes or something?’” Lindsey Kenny says. “I knew he was hooked.”

Katrina Tauchen is a freelance writer, editor and new mom who lives in Durham. She holds a graduate degree from the Missouri School of Journalism and blogs at splashofsomething. com.

Start your baby on the path to

Great Dental Health with a first visit to

High Point Pediatric Dentistry!

Dr. Stephanie Lindsay

Dr. Kristina Coffield

Friendly, Fun, State of the Art Environment

A Place Kids Love!

www.highpointpediatricdentistry.com 1971 Eastchester Drive, High Point, NC 27265

Study: Acetaminophen in babies linked to asthma in young children A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that the more acetaminophen (brand “Tylenol”) that highasthma risk children received as infants, the more likely they were to exhibit asthma-like symptoms in their preschool years.

The researchers reported following children (from birth to age 7) who had mothers with asthma, which increased their risk of having lung diseases themselves. 19 percent of the children had asthma-like symptoms by the time they turned three. For every day that doubled of the child receiving the drug, there was a 28 percent increase in the risk of asthma symptoms later in childhood. But the link between acetaminophen and asthma did not apply to the children after the age of 7. At that point, 14 percent of the children in the study exhibited asthma-like symptoms, which was comparable to what would be expected if they had not been given acetaminophen as babies.

The researchers pointed out that the results of this study were based on a statistical link, and that it did not directly prove that acetaminophen causes airway trouble. The investigators in the study hope their findings will encourage more research into a potentially “plausible biological” link.

— Shannon Koontz

885-5500

Fun Activities You Can Do With Your Infant • Sing to your baby • Have fun at bath time • Take walks and talk about what you see • Have your baby feel different fabrics and textures • Look at brightly colored books together

(336) 725-6011 • www.smartstart-fc.org

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Decorating the Nursery

The hottest trends for baby’s room

By Shannon Koontz You found out you’re pregnant, announced it to your family and friends and started making plans for the baby shower. Let the “nesting” commence!

The first stop is the baby’s room, where your tiny bundle of joy will spend the majority of his or her time. From paint colors to furniture to storage for books and toys, here are the latest trends for the nursery.

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Shades of Gray Today’s savvy moms aren’t just thinking in terms of pink or blue, or even the gender-neutral yellow.

“Hot colors for youth rooms, from infant to toddler, have emerged with more upscale hues and tones,” says Eric C. Lackey, designer and president of The Decorator’s Edge in Thomasville.

“New to the scene is gray, from frosty silvers to pewter.”

As utility becomes more important than ever, parents are turning to multi-purpose furniture like this Retreat series from Lea Furniture.

Image courtesy of Lea Furniture

Shades of gray, bright chevron patterns and whimsical chandeliers are finding their way into today’s nurseries.

Images courtesy of Rolly’s

Lackey says it’s important to have an easy base color that accepts trends not only in color, but in themes as well. Ballerinas can easily become an animal theme, or you can switch from western to a sports theme.

“A room can be individualized as quickly as a child changes her mind by simply adding different pillows, bed coverings and wall art,” says Lackey.

Using a color that “pops” is another popular trend. For both boys and girls, decorators are seeing nontraditional colors, such as turquoise or tangerine, combined with gray.

For patterns, the geometric boldness of chevron stripes is replacing the more whimsical patterns that were popular just a few years ago.

Rock-a-bye baby Convertible cribs are still very popular, particularly those that can transition not only to a toddler bed,

but even to a full-sized bed. But with convertible cribs, come thicker crib slats. As a result, crib-attachable mobiles are becoming obsolete, inspiring parents to get creative.

“A lot of customers decorate their nurseries with chandeliers or pompoms that hang from the ceiling,” says Amy Vore, owner of Rolly’s in Winston-Salem. “These are more for decoration and not so much for stimulation.”

Vore says she also has more customers asking for furniture made in the USA. And despite the warnings about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), the majority of the customers are still buying bumpers for cribs.

Practical is the new cool Savvy shoppers don’t want to redo the nursery every couple of years.

According to Vore, they’ll buy an entire collection, even if the baby is still too young for the furniture.

For instance, the customer will buy the crib and changing table, but also purchase another dresser, a mirror and some nightstands for when the child transitions to a bed. Or they’ll elect to use a multi-purpose piece of furniture, such as the dresser/ changing table combination.

“Utility is the big request today,” said Lackey. “Headboards are bookcases and storage units.

Footboards are desks and tack boards.

Bed rails have clothes storage or pull out trundles for that unexpected guest.”

And just like your room, go ahead and reserve some space for the flat screen TV. “Technology has also changed the furniture choices as well, with every room needing space for flat screen TVs, not to mention, charging stations for all of those ‘smart’ accessories,” says Lackey.

Shannon Koontz is the associate editor/web editor of Piedmont Parent.

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Researchers find babies exclusively breastfed for six months have lower iron levels The first randomized research trial, that compared babies exclusively breastfed for six months to those who were exclusively breastfed for four months, found that babies in the latter group had higher iron levels.

In the study, one group of mothers exclusively breastfed for six months, while the other group breastfed, but also introduced infant cereal, formula and fruit purees at 4 months. Researchers measured the infants and their iron levels at 6 months. While iron levels in the second group were higher, there was no significant difference in growth rates, or the rates of anemia.

Currently the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization (WHO) both recommend that newborns should be exclusively breastfed for six months. According to this study, the reason the WHO holds that recommendation is that exclusively breastfeeding is a healthier option in poverty-stricken countries, where water may be contaminated, or proper nutrition may be hard to come by.

While breastfeeding has been exhaustively researched, health experts have questioned how long exclusively breastfeeding, without introducing other foods, should occur in more developed countries.

“In high-income countries, the evidence for recommending six

months of exclusive breastfeeding is less clear,” wrote the researchers.

— Shannon Koontz

re Learning Kids Are Laughin g…Kids A Open early 6:30am, open late 6:30pm • Children 6 wks-12 yrs Certified teachers • Age appropriate curriculum Cameras in classrooms for parents’ online viewing Summer camps • Kids Café with full time cook on staff Greensboro Locations 514 Pisgah Church Road 4230 Regency Drive Greensboro, NC 27455 Greensboro, NC 27410 336.288.4440 336.856.9990 www.kidsrkidsgso.com www.kidsrkidsnc1.com

infants • toddlers • pre-k • school age

Services for Expectant and New Parents When we’re pregnant, we envision a peaceful baby in our arms.

We plan for the baby’s arrival by reading books and taking classes.

We feel ready and prepared. And as wonderful as the reality of a new baby is, those first few weeks as a new parent can be very daunting.

That’s where Imprints can help!

Let Imprints Infant Specialists assist you with services in the comfort of your home.

• Birth Doulas – trained and certified by DONA • Lactation Support Services • New Parent Survival Guide • Infant Care • Infant Massage • Developmental Screenings • Mommy and Baby Groups

400 W. Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem • 336.767.6730

www.sciworks.org

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www.ImprintsForFamilies.org

336.722.6296 x205

Baby Guide Resource Directory Adoption

3530 N. Main St., HP 336-869-3589 Mom & Me movement classes for ages 18 months to 3 years.

AGAPE of N.C. Inc. agapeofnc.org 302 College Road, GSO 336-855-7107 A Christian, licensed child-placing agency serving the abused/neglected children of N.C. through foster care and adoption.

Kindermusik kindermusik.com 800-628-5687 Music and movement classes and summer programs for infants through 7 years.

Carolina Adoption Services carolinaadoption.org 301 N. Elm St., Suite 500, GSO 336-275-9660, 800-632-9312 A children’s charity dedicated to improving the quality of life for orphans and vulnerable children in Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America and Africa.

Works with families adopting through their agency as well as families working toward placement with international and domestic agencies around the country.

Musikgarten musikgarten.org 800-216-6864 Developmentally based music classes for infants through 7 years.

The Little Gym of Burlington

Catholic Social Services

of children from these countries into stable and nurturing homes.

cssnc.org 2201 W. Market St., GSO 336-274-5577 and 627 W. Second St., W-S 336-727-0705 Provides domestic and international adoption services.

Love Links Foster Placement and Adoption Agency Inc. love4kids.net 313-C Trindale Road, Archdale 336-431-6678 Christian foster placement and adoption agency.

Children’s Home Society of N.C.

Baby & Toddler Programs

chsnc.org P.O. Box 14608, GSO 800-632-1400 Provides programs in parenting education, family preservation, teen pregnancy prevention, foster care and adoption.

Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem childrensmuseumofws.org 390 S. Liberty St., W-S 336-723-9111 Weekly and monthly programs for parents with babies and young children.

Family Services Inc. fsifamily.org 1200 S. Broad St., W-S 336-722-8173 International and domestic adoption program, infant adoptions, and foster adoption assistance.

Greensboro Children’s Museum — Busy Bees gcmuseum.com 220 N. Church St., GSO 336-574-2898 Members-only educational play program for parents and children ages 12 months to 4 years.

Hopscotch Adoptions Inc. hopscotchadoptions.org 1208 Eastchester Drive, Suite 120, HP 336-899-0068 A Hague accredited adoption agency with active programs in Armenia, Bulgaria, Republic of Georgia, Ghana and Morocco. Assists in the placement

High Point Gymnastics Academy highpointgymnastics.com

thelittlegym.com 1071 Piper Lane, Alamance Crossing, Burlington 336-585-1233 Creative movement classes for children ages 4 months through 12 years.

The Little Gym of Greensboro thelittlegym.com 3369 Battleground Ave., GSO 336-545-1117 Creative movement classes for children ages 4 months through 12 years.

Salem Gymnastics Sports Center salemgym.com 4870 Country Club Road, W-S 336-765-4668 Movement classes and summer programs for ages 6 months and up.

Swim Fanatics Swim Club swimfanatics.com P.O. Box 10407, GSO 336-287-6109 Swim lessons for infants and toddlers ages 4 months to 2 years as well as youth and adults.

Tumblebees tumblebees.com 6904 Downwind Road, GSO 336-665-0662 Creative movement classes for children ages 4 months and up.

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Breastfeeding Support & Supplies Alamance Regional Medical Center armc.com 1240 Huffman Mill Road, Burlington 336-538-7550 Inpatient and outpatient certified lactation consultants.

Forsyth Medical Center — The Sara Lee Center for Women’s Health forsythmedicalcenter.org 3333 Silas Creek Parkway, W-S 336-718-5000 Nursing Mother’s Center provides services, supplies, equipment and support for nursing mothers.

Retail shop open to public and sells supplies, nursing clothing, accessories and equipment.

La Leche League of Greensboro lllofnc.org A support group for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers offering breastfeeding information and support. Babies and toddlers welcome.

Meets the first Friday of each month at 10 a.m. at Leonard Center, 6324 Ballinger Road, GSO.

La Leche League of Kernersville lllofnc.org A support group for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers offering breastfeeding information and support. Babies and toddlers welcome.

Meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Fountain of Life Lutheran Church, 323 Hopkins Road, Kernersville.

La Leche League of Winston-Salem lllofnc.org A support group for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers offering breastfeeding information and support. Babies and toddlers welcome.

Meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. at Redeemer Presbyterian Church, 1046 Miller St., W-S.

Peaceful Beginnings peaceful-beginnings.org 410 Blandwood St., GSO 336-255-8311 Private and group breastfeeding support sessions and classes. Also sells breastfeeding supplies.

Triad Nursing Moms 336-812-3937 Breastfeeding support group meets the third

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Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. on the third floor, Premier Medical Plaza, 4515 Premier Drive, HP.

The Women’s Hospital of Greensboro conehealth.com 801 Green Valley Road, GSO 336-832-6682 Inpatient and outpatient certified lactation consultants. Breastfeeding Support Group meets every Tuesday at 11 a.m.

Childbirth & Parenting Classes Alamance Regional Medical Center armc.com 1240 Huffman Mill Road, Burlington 336-538-7550 Classes in childbirth preparation and breastfeeding, baby sign language, Boot Camp for new dads, infant massage, infant CPR, pre- and post-natal yoga, and sibling classes. Also offering Motheread B.A.B.Y. (Birth and Beginning Years) eight-week series for preparing to become a new mother.

Children’s Parents 500 W. Northwest Blvd., W-S 336-748-9028 Exchange/SCAN 12 -week parenting program offered three times per year. Referrals by court order, professionals or families.

High Point Regional Health System highpointregional.com 601 N. Elm St., HP 336-878-6888 Expectant parenting classes in labor, birth and pain control, infant feeding and breastfeeding, newborn care, infant massage, infant CPR, and Mommy and Me weekly classes.

Imprints imprintsforfamilies.org 502 N. Broad St., W-S. 336-722-6296 Offers a variety of programs with services ranging from educating women and their partners about prenatal care, to classes in infant massage and baby sign language, to facilitating parent-teacher collaboration during the first year of school.

Lexington Memorial Hospital lexingtonmemorial.com 250 Hospital Drive, Lexington 336-248-5161

Seven-week course includes topics in childbirth preparation, breastfeeding, post-partum education, newborn care and hospital tour. Sibling classes also available.

MedCenter Kernersville conehealth.com 1635 NC 66 South, Kernersville 336-832-6682 Five-week Birth and Baby class covers infant care and safety, birthing options, Cesarean birth, pain management skills and the role of the labor partner.

Natural Baby Happy Family naturalbabyhappyfamily.com 338 N. Elm St. No. 334, GSO 336-267-5879 Natural Childbirth Education classes and doula services.

Peaceful Beginnings peaceful-beginnings.org 410 Blandwood St., GSO 336-255-8311 Classes in childbirth preparation, HypnoBirthing®, breastfeeding, newborn massage and baby wearing.

Randolph Hospital Education Center randolphhospital.org 200-A Foust St., Asheboro 336-633-7788 Classes in childbirth preparation, breastfeeding, infant/child CPR and infant care.

The Sara Lee Center for Women’s Health at Forsyth Medical Center

forsythmedicalcenter.org 3333 Silas Creek Parkway, W-S 336-718-5000 Childbirth preparation and breastfeeding classes, infant massage, infant safety and CPR, yoga for childbirth, Baby Boot Camp fitness classes, and sibling classes.

The Women’s Hospital of Greensboro conehealth.com 801 Green Valley Road, GSO 336-832-6682 Classes in prepared childbirth and breastfeeding, Baby and Me for new moms, Boot Camp for new dads, infant/child CPR, and infant massage as well as classes for siblings, parents of multiples and grandparents.

Womankind Center, Annie Penn Hospital

Babysitting service providing prescreened sitters to families in the Triad.

conehealth.com 618 S. Main St., Reidsville 336-951-4000 Weekend Birth and Baby class covers infant care and safety, birthing options, Cesarean birth, pain management skills, and the role of the labor partner.

workfamilyresource.org 530 N. Spring St., W-S 336-761-5100 Nonprofit child-care resource and referral agency for Forsyth and surrounding counties.

Work Family Resource Center

Childcare and Nanny/ Au Pair Referrals

Children’s Consignment Stores

AuPair Care

Bubbles Kids

aupaircare.com 800-428-7247 Provides in-home caretakers for infants and children.

bubbleskids.com 1724 Battleground Ave., GSO 336-378-1358 Children’s clothing consignment store with sizes newborn through 12 as well as toys, shoes and gifts.

A Nanny on the Net anannyonthenet.com/greensboro.html 888-436-0222 Professional nanny placement service.

Encore Kids Consignment 2957-B Battleground Ave., GSO 336-286-2600 and 305 W. Mountain St., Kernersville 336-993-3444 Children’s and maternity consignment store.

Cultural Care AuPair culturalcare.com 800-333-6056 Provides in-home nannies nationwide.

Family Friendly Nanny

Greenway Kids

familyfriendnanny.com 336-659-3888 Specializing in nanny placement services that include interviewing and securing nannies and au pairs for families throughout the Triad.

3925 Sedgebrook St., Suite 109, HP 336-298-1495 Children’s and maternity consignment store.

Jack and Jill Children’s Resale 2471 S. Church St., Burlington 336-792-1494 Children’s consignment store for sizes preemie through 14.

Preferred ChildCare Inc. preferredchildcare.com 118 South Cherry St., Suite C, Kernersville, 336-392-7827 Provides pre-screened sitters and nannies to families in the Triad.

Kid Tested kidtested.net 2310 Battleground Ave., Suite 102, GSO 336-285-7101 Children’s clothing consignment store with sizes newborn through 6 as well as toys, shoes, furniture, strollers, high chairs and accessories.

Regional Childcare Resources and Referral rccrr.org 1200 Arlington St., GSO 336-369-5097 Childcare resource and referral agency for Guilford, Rockingham and Randolph counties.

Kidzone kidzoneconsignment.com 4623-D High Point Road, GSO 336-297-9663 Children’s clothing consignment store as well as toys, shoes, furniture, equipment and more.

Salem Sitters salemsitters.com 5449 Kingsbridge Road, W-S 336-659-7806

Mommy and Me Consignments

mommyandmeconsignments.com 10935-D N. Main St., Archdale 336-431-4628 Children’s and maternity consignment store. Also selling new, hand-crafted items.

Once Upon a Child

435 G Dolley Madison Road, GSO 336-855-9914 Children’s and maternity consignment store.

Diaper Services Hip Bottoms

hipbottomsclothdiapers.com 336-469-0873 Stylish and affordable cloth diapers.

Doulas & Midwives Ardmore Family Practice

ardmorefamilypractice.com 2805 Lyndhurst Ave., W-S 336-659-0076 Certified nurse midwife on staff.

Birth Days Doula Services

birthdaysdoula.com 336-337-8630 Certified doula and postpartum services in the Triad and surrounding areas.

Central Carolina Obstetrics and Gynecology

ccobgyn.com 301 E. Wendover Ave., GSO 336-286-6565 Four certified nurse midwives on staff.

Dr. Henry Dorn

drdorn.com 405 Lindsay St., GSO 336-889-2000 Pregnancy care, including midwifery care.

Mary Gillett

mgdoula.com 336-707-4052 Certified doula offering services in the Greensboro and High Point areas.

Greensboro Birth Partners

greensborobirthpartners.com GSO

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Provides birth doula services in Greensboro and the surrounding areas. Also holds classes, seminars, and groups about birth, prenatal fitness and parenting topics.

Greensboro Women’s Healthcare gsowhc.com 719 Green Valley Road, Suite 101, GSO 336-370-0277 Certified nurse midwife on staff.

Healthy Moms healthymomstriad.com carolanne@healthymomsfitness.com Certified birth doula.

Jacqueline Messick greensboro-doula.com 336-339-7714 Certified doula offering services in Greensboro.

Journeys Counseling Center

Health & Safety Alamance County Health Department alamance-nc.com/d/health.html 319 N. Graham-Hopedale Road, Burlington 336-227-0101

American Red Cross Forsyth, Davie, Stokes and Yadkin Counties — nwnc-redcross.org, 336-724-0511 Guilford County — Greensboro 336-333-2111; High Point 336-885-9121

Davie County Health Department daviecountync.gov 210 Hospital St., Mocksville 336-753-6750

Davidson County Health Department

journeyscounseling.net 612 Pasteur Drive, Suite 300, GSO 336-294-1349 Certified doula on staff.

co.davidson.nc.us 915 Greensboro St., Lexington 336-242-2000

Natural Baby Happy Family

Forsyth County Department of Public Health

naturalbabyhappyfamily.com 338 N. Elm St. #334, GSO 336-267-5879 Certified doula offering services in the Triad area.

co.forsyth.nc.us/publichealth 799 N. Highland Ave., W-S 336-703-3100

Piedmont Area Doula Association

Guilford County Department of Public Health

padanc.org 336-397-1008

Triad Birth Doula triadbirthdoula.com 336-312-4678 Certified doula serving the Triad area. Also certified to attend water births.

Wendover OB/GYN wendoverobgyn.com 1908 Lendew St., GSO 336-273-2835 Certified nurse midwife on staff.

guilfordhealth.org 1203 Maple St., GSO 1100 E. Wendover Ave., GSO 400 W. Market St., GSO 501 E. Green Drive, HP 336-641-7777

Home Safety Services homesafetyservices.com 336-298-3056 Childproofing and installation, child safety seat installation and checks, and home safety in the Triad.

Poison Control

WomanCare Obstetrics and Gynecology

ncpoisoncenter.org 800-222-1222

w-swomancare.com 114 Charlois Blvd., W-S 336-765-5470 Certified nurse midwife on staff.

Randolph County Public Health Department

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co.randolph.nc.us

2222-B S. Fayetteville St., Asheboro 336-318-6200

Safe Guilford safeguilford.blogspot.com 336-832-2970 A local injury prevention coalition.

Safe Kids N.C. ncdoi.com/OSFM/SafeKids An organization whose mission is to prevent accidental childhood injury. 36 coalitions covering 58 counties in N.C.

Stokes Family Health Center co.stokes.nc.us/health 1009 Main St., Danbury 336-593-2400 102 Hartgrove Road, King 336-985-2727

Infertility/Fertility Green Valley OB/Gyn and Infertility gvobgyn.com 719 Green Valley Road, Suite 201, GSO 336-378-1110

Infertility Support Group 336-832-8000

Premier Fertility Center premierfertility.com 2783 N.C. Highway 68, Suite 104, HP 336-841-7070

Wake Forest University Center for Reproductive Medicine 131 Miller St., 2nd Floor, W-S 336-716-6476

Wendover OB/Gyn wendoverobgyn.com 1908 Lendew St, GSO 336-273-2835

Maternity Clothing & Nursing Gear Encore Kids Consignment 2957-B Battleground Ave., GSO 336-286-2600 and

305 W. Mountain St., Kernersville 336-993-3444 Children’s and maternity consignment store.

International Christian organization for mothers of babies to preschoolers with more than 25 MOPS groups in the Triad and surrounding areas.

Greenway Kids

Triadmommies

3925 Sedgebrook St., Suite 109, HP 336-298-1495 Children’s and maternity consignment store.

triadmommies.com A free, online community for moms in Guilford and Forsyth counties. Holds regular events, play dates and other activities throughout the year.

Mommy and Me Consignments mommyandmeconsignments.com 10935-D N. Main St., Archdale 336-431-4628 Children’s and maternity consignment store. Also selling new, hand-crafted items.

OB/Gyns Ardmore Family Practice ardmorefamilypractice.com 2805 Lyndhurst Ave., W-S 336-659-0076

Motherhood Maternity motherhood.com 605 Friendly Center Road, GSO 336-854-2805 Four Seasons Town Centre 336-294-0234 Hanes Mall 336-659-1266

Central Carolina Obstetrics and Gynecology ccobgyn.com 301 E. Wendover Ave., GSO 336-286-6565

Once Upon a Child

Central Carolina Women’s Center

435 G Dolley Madison Road, GSO 336-855-9914 Children’s and maternity consignment store.

cornerstonehealth.com 237-A N. Fayetteville St., Asheboro 336-626-6371

Center for Women’s Healthcare at MedCenter Kernersville

Moms’ Groups

medcenterkernersville.com 1635 N.C. 66 South, Kernersville 336-992-5120

Mocha Moms 336-274-3470 For mothers of color who have chosen not to work full time outside of the home.

Dr. Henry Dorn drdorn.com 405 Lindsay St., GSO 336-889-2000

MOMS Club of Greensboro East momsclubgso.weebly.com/index.html momsclubgso@yahoo.com Brandt Oaks Baptist Church 4600 Lake Brandt Road, GSO A support group for stay-at-home moms in Greensboro. Meets the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon.

Eagle OB/Gyn eaglemds.com 301 E. Wendover Ave. Suite 300, GSO 336-268-3380

Green Valley OB/Gyn and Infertility gvobgyn.com 719 Green Valley Road, Suite 201, GSO 336-378-1110

Greensboro Women’s Healthcare gsowhc.com 719 Green Valley Road, Suite 101, GSO 336-370-0277

Hawthorne OB/Gyn Associates hawthorneobgyn.com 1806 S. Hawthorne Road, W-S 336-768-3632

High Point OB/Gyn Associates cornerstonehealth.com 400 N. Elm St., HP 336-802-2120

Kernodle Clinic OB/Gyn kernodle.com 1234 Huffman Mill Road, Burlington 336-506-1266

Lyndhurst Gynecologic Associates lyndhurstgyn.com 2927 Lyndhurst Ave., W-S 336-765-9350

Physicians for Women of Greensboro physiciansforwomen.com 802 Green Valley Road, Suite 300, GSO 336-273-3661

Piedmont Health Care for Women/ Greensboro OB/Gyn Associates Division greensboroobgynassociates.com 510 N. Elam Ave., Suite 101, GSO 336-854-8800

Pinewest OB/Gyn The Femina Women’s Center

Moms Meetup

feminawomenscenter.net 802 Green Valley Rd. Suite 200, GSO 336-389-9898

moms.meetup.com/cities/us/nc Online communities for moms around the Triad to meet other moms. Various groups based on location or interest and many hold regular meetups around the Triad.

Grace Women’s Clinic gracewomensclinic.com 2280 S. Church St., Suite 201, Burlington 336-538-2014

MOPS — Mothers of Preschoolers mops.org

cornerstonehealth.com 306 Westwood Ave., Suite 501, HP 336-885-0149

Valaoras and Lewis Obstetrics and Gynecology valaoraslewis.com 245 Charlois Blvd., W-S 336-659-4777

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Wendover OB/Gyn

wendoverobgyn.com 1908 Lendew St., GSO 336-273-2835

633 N. Trade St., W-S 336-725-4119 Offering prenatal yoga classes.

Westside OB/Gyn Center

Prenatal/Postnatal Massage

westsideobgyn.com 1091 Kirkpatrick Road, Burlington 336-538-1880

WomanCare Obstetrics and Gynecology

w-swomancare.com 114 Charlois Blvd., W-S 336-765-5470

About Face Cosmetics and Day Spa aboutfacedayspa.com 1107 N. Main St., HP 336-862-1661

Balance Day Spa

Pediatrician Referral American Academy of Pediatrics aap.org, healthychildren.org

Prenatal/Postnatal Fitness Baby Bootcamp

balancedayspa.com Greensboro, Winston-Salem and Burlington locations 336-574-2556

Light Touch triadlighttouch.com 8043 Thorndike Road, GSO 336-420-2398 Providing Reiki treatments to pregnant women and to children of all ages to treat a variety of ailments.

Massage Envy

babybootcamp.com Gateway YWCA, 1300 S. Main St., W-S 336-277-1887 Stroller-based fitness classes combine strengthtraining exercises with cardiovascular drills.

massageenvy.com Greensboro, High Point and Winston-Salem locations 336-286-1308, 336-774-9994

Healthy Moms

Peaceful Beginnings

healthymomstriad.com Greensboro/Kernersville 336-408-5718 Winston-Salem/Lexington 336-403-0956 An exercise program designed to prepare a woman for the physiological changes of pregnancy and postpartum. Classes in four Triad locations in water exercise, Pilates, Powerstroll®, conditioning and prenatal yoga.

Stroller Strides

Greensboro 888-239-9453 Fitness program moms can do with their babies.

Sunrise Yoga Studio

sunriseyoga.net 6000 Meadowbrook Mall Court, Suite 1, Clemmons 336-778-1233 Offering prenatal yoga classes.

Yoga Gallery

yogagallery.net

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peaceful-beginnings.org 515 College Road, Ste. 4, GSO 336-255-8311

Selah Massage selahmassage.com 300 Jonestown Road, W-S 336-602-1484

Special Needs Support & Services Autism Society of North Carolina — Triad Region Services autismsociety-nc.org 810 Warren St., GSO 336-333-0197 Community-based services include home and community support, day support, long-term vocational support, supported employment, respite, individualized caregiver training and education,

personal care and skills instruction. Chapters in Alamance, Forsyth and Guilford counties.

Care Coordination for Children (CC4C) 1203 Maple St., Greensboro and 501 E. Green Drive, High Point 336-641-7641 Serves children born at risk for developmental delays, children who have difficulty learning to speak or other delays from birth to 5 years.

Children’s Developmental Services Agency (CDSA) brennerchildrens.org/CDSA Amos Cottage 3325 Silas Creek Parkway, W-S 336-713-7412 and 123 W. Center St. Extension, Lexington 336-224-6990 A regional early intervention center for infants and toddlers with developmental disabilities or delays.

Offers evaluation, treatment, service coordination and consultation services to families of children birth to 3 years in Forsyth, Davidson, Davie, Stokes, Surry and Yadkin Counties.

Children’s Developmental Services Agency (CDSA) — Greensboro beearly.nc.gov 122 N. Elm St., Suite 400, GSO 336-334-5601 Early intervention services for birth to age 3. Serving Guilford, Alamance, Rockingham, Randolph and Caswell counties.

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation — Carolina Chapter cff.org Raleigh Support, advocacy, resources and education for people affected by cystic fibrosis. Pediatric care center located at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center.

Down Syndrome Network of Greater Greensboro team-up.org A group of parents who are committed to supporting one another, sharing important information and advocating for the very best in school and community services for children with Down syndrome.

Family Support Network of Forsyth County

Spina Bifida Association

612 Pasteur Drive, Suite 300, GSO 336-294-1349 Out-patient counseling for postpartum depression and other disorders.

Stokes County Partnership for Children

lllofnc.org Support for breastfeeding mothers. See local chapter information under “Breastfeeding.”

spinabifidaassociation.org 800-621-3141 Resources, information and advocacy on the treatment for and prevention of spina bifida.

fsngreaterforsyth.com 4505 Shattalon Drive W-S 336-924-5301 Provides free services to those people who care for children with special needs.

Family Support Network of Central Carolina

stokespfc.com 151 Jefferson Church Road, King 336-985-2676 Non-profit organization provides programs and services for families and young children in Stokes County, including administering the Smart Start program.

fsncc.org 801 Green Valley Road, GSO 336-832-6507 Provides support and resources for families of children with prematurity, developmental disabilities, chronic illness, and other special needs.

Serving Alamance, Caswell, Guilford, Randolph and Rockingham counties.

*For a full list of special needs resources, go to piedmontparent.com/directories/specialneeds

Support Groups

Greensboro Cerebral Palsy Association Inc./Gateway Education Center

Adoption Support Group

gatewayearlyintervention.org 3205 E. Wendover Ave., GSO 336-375-2575 An early intervention program focused upon the needs of children ages birth to 3 with severe developmental delays and medical disabilities.

336-703-3500

Fatherhood Connection

336-722-6296

Feelings After Birth Support Group

March of Dimes North Carolina Chapter

The Women’s Hospital of Greensboro conehealth.com 336-832-6682 For women struggling with postpartum depression. Held every Tuesday at 10 a.m.

marchofdimes.com/northcarolina Greater Triad Division 410 Brookstown Ave., W-S 336-723-4386 Funds research and provides community services, education and advocacy to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

336-273-3461

Greensboro Mothers of Multiples

Muscular Dystrophy Association

gmom.org

mda.org 2306 W. Meadowview Road, #125, GSO 336-856-1591 Information on clinics, support groups, summer camps and equipment for children with muscular dystrophy.

Haven of Hope and Healing

336-227-8306 For parents who have lost a pregnancy.

Heartstrings

heartstringssupport.org 336-335-9931 Pregnancy and infant loss support.

Piedmont Down Syndrome Support Network pdssn.com 4715 Yadkinville Road, #144, Pfafftown 336-480-8871 Provides support and information to parents of children with Down syndrome in the Piedmont area.

Infertility Support Group

336-832-8000

Journeys Counseling Center

journeyscounseling.net

La Leche League

Mocha Moms

336-274-3470 For mothers of color who have chosen not to work full time outside of the home.

Mommy and Me

highpointregional.com High Point Regional Health System, 601 N. Elm St., HP 336-878-6888 Weekly class and support group for new moms and their babies (up to 6 months old).

MOMS (Mothers of Multiples)

armc.com Alamance Regional Medical Center, 1240 Huffman Mill, Burlington 336-449-7416 For mothers or mothers-to-be of twins, triplets or multiples.

Mother Baby Foundation

motherbabyfoundation.org P.O. Box 1675, Jamestown Nonprofit organization in the Triad whose mission is to empower new babies and their families to thrive. Offers educational programs and support groups including Optimal Nutrition, PEP Talks and Triad Nursing Moms.

Motherhood Connection

336-713-9732

Nursing Matters Breastfeeding Support Group

Forsyth Medical Center, 3333 Silas Creek Parkway, W-S Pregnant moms and breastfeeding mothers are welcome for breastfeeding information and support. Babies and toddlers are always welcome.

PEP Talks

336-812-3937 Support group for mothers of new babies.

TriadMommies

triadmommies.com

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8 Benefits

of doula support during labor

By Heidi Smith Luedtke Labor and delivery is a lot like freefall parachuting. You can take classes to prepare. You may file a detailed plan for the blessed event. Still, jumping into the action with only your partner’s support seems scary. Even experienced moms can benefit from a doula’s help. Here’s how.

1: Continuous Care Most moms agree: Labor and delivery nurses are angels in scrubs.

Unfortunately, demands on nurses are intense. A doula is an asset even if you’ll receive one-on-one care. In labor and delivery, there are really two patients: you and your baby. Nurses must update charts, consult physicians and monitor the baby. A doula stays focused on you, start-to-finish.

2: Shorter (Safer) Labor Studies show doula-attended labors are 25 percent shorter on average. Who wouldn’t want that? “Long, drawn out labor can be physically and emotionally challenging, even if a woman is medicated and comfortable,” says Ann Fulcher, program manager for the Hearts and Hands Volunteer Doula Program at the University of California, San Diego. Shorter labors are more effective, and there’s less time for infection or other complications to develop, says Fulcher. Doulaassisted moms are also less likely to receive epidural anesthesia, forceps delivery or a cesarean.

3: Cool Tools A doula’s tool kit often contains scented oils, ice packs, heating pads and a birth ball. Doulas also know which labor positions relieve pain and increase

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Before hiring Ask a doula about: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Training and certification Number of births attended Favorite soothing strategies Views on medication during labor Personality Fees and payment schedule Back-up coverage

Don’t just look for experience, look for passion. Ask “Why did you become a doula?” or “What is the best part of your job?” Her responses will help you see whether she’s right for you.

More information effectiveness. Her bag of tricks gives you access to a range of coping techniques and leaves room in your suitcase for organic cotton onesies and post-partum snacks. And if you dislike the music she chooses or find the hot pad uncomfortable, your doula will redirect her approach without taking it personally.

Your husband? Not so much.

4: A Smart Start Even if you took Lamaze or watched seven seasons of “A Baby Story,” you might forget what you learned when contractions start. Doulas certified by DONA International study the childbirth process, painmanagement techniques and breastfeeding, and they’re graded during three pre-certification births, says Lori Hill, DONA’s director of public relations.

Doulas typically meet with a client well before B-day to get acquainted, answer questions and make plans.

This ensures you’re both on the same page.

5: Less Stress Doula-supported moms report less distress during labor, and emotional perks pay off physically. When you’re stressed the body releases adrenaline, activating the fight-or-flight response. “In simplest terms, adrenalin suppresses oxytocin, the hormone that makes labor happen,” says Fulcher. So if a mother is anxious, scared or angry, stress hormones may cause labor to stall. “That’s where the doula’s informational and emotional support comes in,” says Fulcher. Doulas are useful even for medicated labor and surgical deliveries.

6: Team Spirit If you’re worried that your spouse or your doctor won’t welcome the doula’s help, stop. A doula supports others; she doesn’t replace anyone. Your spouse and the hospital staff will have less pressure in the labor and delivery room because the doula is there to assist. Check with your hospital or birthing center to find out how many people are allowed in labor and delivery. Having a doula in the room may mean there isn’t room for your mother-in-law. (Whew!)

Find doulas near you ■ ■ ■ ■

dona.org doulamatch.net findadoula.com doulanetwork.com

Fees for private doulas range from $300 to $1,000 depending on experience and location, says Lori Hill, director of public relations for DONA International.

7: Dignity Defense You’ll still want to share the emotional intimacy of childbirth with your partner. But, if you feel selfconscious about labor and delivery — and who doesn’t? — hiring a doula lets him assist you without seeing R-rated aspects, like trips to the toilet or violent vomiting. An extra pair of hands takes pressure off your partner and allows him to step away if (or when) he’s overwhelmed.

8: Social Graces It may sound like a doula will do everything but deliver your baby. She won’t. A certified doula’s professional standards of care and ethics don’t allow her to give medical advice or make decisions for you. She will facilitate interactions with the doctor by reminding you of questions you wanted to ask, which will help you help yourself. And she’ll intervene (politely) when your sister’s constant chatter gets on your last nerve.

As you plan baby’s birth day, ensure you’ll have the labor support you need. Even with your heroic husband at bedside, you might want to go pro.

Heidi Smith Luedtke is a psychologist, freelance writer and mom of two. For more information, visit HeidiLuedtke.com.

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They collected 10 pacifiers from healthy infants, chopped up the nipples and shields, and put them in petri dishes. After 48 hours, the researchers cultured 40 different species of bacteria from the used pacifiers, many of which were antibioticresistant.

The researchers said the same type of bacteria that can be found on the pacifiers have also been potentially linked to gastrointestinal problems, colic and ear infections in infants; and to cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, autoimmune diseases, allergies and asthma in adults. The researchers also reported finding fungus and mold on the pacifiers.

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29

$ave Big on Baby Gear Tips for the budget conscious parent

By Sandra Gordon

Those calming breaths you may have practiced in childbirth class?

They’ll come in handy in the baby superstore aisle, too. That’s because baby products are a $9.8 billion industry in the U.S. with hundreds of new products added to the line-up each year.

With an increasing range of choices and seemingly endless options of baby gear online and in stores, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, buy more than you need and overspend. Keep in mind, though, that you can get good value and buy high-quality, safe products for your baby without bruising your bank account — or feeling deprived.

For starters, breastfeeding will save you $2,000 during your baby’s first year, which is the money you’d otherwise spend on infant formula.

You’ll shave another $2,000 off the tab by using cloth diapers, compared to the cost of disposables. For the scoop on cloth diapering, check out “Diapering Decisions” on page 12. These days, cloth diapers are almost as easy to use as disposables and, of course, they’re great for the environment too. Skip the designer clothes. Sure, they’re cute. But it’s silly to spend $75 on a super-stylish romper if your baby will outgrow it in a month or two. Want other ideas? Here are six more ways to save on baby.

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Go with store-brand infant formula.

Breast is best, but if you want or need to use infant formula, definitely go with the store brand.

Store-brand infant formulas, labeled with the names of retailstore brands, such as Target (Up & UP), Wal-Mart (Parent’s Choice), CVS (CVS brand), Babies“R”Us (Babies“R”Us), Sam’s Club (Simply Right), Kroger (Comforts), Toys“R”Us (Babies“R”Us), and Walgreen’s (W), have to be as nutritionally complete as national brand formulas as per FDA regulations, yet cost up to 50 percent less, which can add up to a savings of $1,000 or more per

year if you formula feed your baby without supplementing with breast milk. Skeptical? Compare nutrition information on the labels of brand name and store-brand infant formula and see for yourself.

Stock up November through January.

The fall and early winter are when baby product retailers slash prices on inventory to make room for next year’s merchandise. So what if you buy a 2012 stroller? Chances are it’s not much different than the 2013 model, aside from a fabric update. If you’re in a store where there’s room to haggle, such as your local baby

boutique, be sure to ask: “Is that your best price?” or “Would it be possible to mark this down even more?”

Meanwhile, shop mid-week.

Shoppers tend to flood stores on the weekends due to work schedules. But you’ll often find the best deals on baby gear during the week because retailers want to generate consumer traffic. Get on the email list of your favorite baby stores, such as Babies“R”Us, and keep your eyes peeled for notices of cyber and in-store sales. Like grocery shopping, though, stick to your list. Impulse buys on stuff you really don’t need can wipe out your savings.

Do the legwork.

Don’t just register online, products unseen. Go to stores and get familiar with strollers, car seats, cribs and gliders so you really know what you’re selecting. Be sure to list practical items, too, such as diapers, wipes, infant formula, breast shields and refills for the Diaper Genie. They may not seem gifty, but it can save you lots of moola down the line. For an idea of baby brands and products to avoid, check out saferproducts. gov. There you’ll find reports from other parents about baby products they’ve had bad experiences with, which can be helpful.

Use a stroller frame for your baby’s first stroller.

Instead of shelling out hundreds for a stroller, snap your baby’s infant car seat into a bare-bones stroller frame, such as the Baby Trend Snap ’n Go (around $50). The carrier frame will do the job until your baby outgrows his infant car seat (at about a year). It’s compatible with most brands of infant car seats. A stroller frame will buy you time, saving you from having to pair your baby’s infant car seat with a traditional coordinating stroller from day one. You’ll know so much more about your stroller needs once you’ve got some parenting experience under your belt.

Rent baby gear for travel.

Instead of lugging a car seat, stroller and play yard or making Grandma shell out for her own set of baby gear, why not rent everything you need to keep you and your little one safe and content? These days, you can lease a crib, play yard, high chair, booster chair, car seat, stroller and even toys at a weekly rate that’s typically less than it would cost to check them at the

airport. A basic Pack ’n Play, for example, which can multitask as a crib, changing table and play pen, typically costs around $60 new to buy and $100 to $130 to check at the airport. To rent one, you can expect to pay around $7 per day or $35 per week, though fees vary per rental agent.

Besides the cost savings, renting is a sanity saver. It takes the hassle out of traveling, which is difficult enough for adults these days. But as you may know, when you have little ones and all their stuff, it can be a nightmare. Before renting baby gear, ask about safety and cleanliness. How have the products been cleaned? How old is the car seat? What happens if you lose or break something? Most rental contracts will stipulate that if the product is damaged, lost or stolen, you’re responsible for replacing it. To rent baby equipment and have it go smoothly, coordination is key. It’s great if the rental agent can meet you at your car rental or at the airport or pre-assemble the products where you’ll be staying, such as a vacation rental. Check babytravelpros.com for links to baby gear rental companies in the U.S. and Canada as well as Mexico, France and Argentina. Baby Travel Pros members are committed to cleanliness, quality, and safety and follow the industry best practices. Rental prices, products and rental agreements vary per vendor.

Sandra Gordon is an award-winning writer who writes about health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues. Gordon’s most recent book is “Save a Bundle: 50+ Ways to Save Big on Baby Gear.”

She also blogs about baby products at babyproductsmom.com.

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