urbanbaby & toddler - Fall 2010 by Urbanbaby & Toddler Magazine

special advertising section TM

Bellies to Babies Celebration : Sunday, Oct. 3, 2010

elebrate Motherhood at the Bellies to Babies Celebration™, the province’s only educational tradeshow for new and expectant parents. Whether you’re a rookie or becoming a mom for the second or third time, this day is just for you. Attendees will see everything from stylish baby and children’s clothing, beauty products for radiant skin, and postnatal classes for mom and baby, to organic baby gifts for the new arrival. It’s all here at one show —under one

roof. Representatives from community resources and support groups will be on hand to answer questions for new and expecting parents. Moms-tobe can take part in educational workshops such as “Survival Tips for Rookie Moms,” “Cloth Diapering 101” and BCAA car seat demonstrations. Bellies to Babies Celebration™ will feature a wide variety of exhibitors and sponsors, over $2,000 in door prizes, and the first 100 moms in attendance receive a complimentary diaper bag ,courtesy of Memory Castings. Every mom in attendance at the Oct. 3, 2010 tradeshow will be eligible for the grand door prize draw of a $1,000 shopping spree

from Style Kid. Rookie dads can take part in the Daddy Diapering Contest! For new moms, enter your baby into our CUTEST BABY PHOTO CONTEST. Your little one could win the opportunity to be featured in an issue of urbanbaby & toddler magazine plus win a $250 Usborne Books My First Library Package and be our exclusive Bellies to Babies Celebration™ Tradeshow Baby for 2011. Pictures will be taken on site by Studio 2 Photography. vent: Bellies to Babies E Celebration™ Date: Sunday, Oct. 3rd, 2010 Time: 11 am - 4 pm Place: Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Dr Admission: by donation to

Vancouver Food Bank Basics for Babies Program. Donations of baby food, formula, diapers and baby wipes as well as monetary donations are much appreciated. To Attend: Register at www. belliestobabiescelebration.com or call 604-908-8835. Sign up today for Bellies to Babies Celebration™ e-newsletter. Bellies to Babies Celebration™ supports “Breastfeeding is Best” and provides a breastfeedingfriendly environment for all. Sponsored by: urbanbaby & toddler magazine, JRFM, Memory Castings, Style Kid, Shop ‘n Stroll, Vancouver 24 Hrs, Movies for Mommies, Usborne Books and Westcoastmoms.ca.

Win a $1000 Shopping Spree! Sponsored by Style Kid First 100 Moms in attendance will receive a complimentary diaper bag! Sponsored by Memory Castings

| urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

Style for every step of the way.

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EDITOR & DESIGNER Emma Lee PRODUCTION Barb Farley CONTRIBUTORS Kim Connelly, Desiree Daniels,Leanne Davis, Crystal DiNicolo, Daniela Ginta, Melissa Martz,Dr. Karen Nordahl, Marilee Peters, Dr. Emilie Salomons, Helen Sands, Dr. Lynn Simpson, Christina Stewart, Blair Yochim ADVERTISING SALES Emma Lee COVER DESIGN Rick Campbell COVER PHOTO Eclipse Photography, eclipsephotography.ca

FALL 2010 volume 8 n issue 1

COVER MODEL Ryder Finley urbanbaby & toddler magazine is published 4 times/year by Go Kids Publishing Inc, printing 40,000 per issue. Publications mail 40832580 Return undeliverable mail to: 928 West 20th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1Y5 Canada Ad inquiries: Tel. 604.420.8760 Email. sales@urbanbaby.ca

on the cover

celebrity mommy: The Beat 94.5’s Amy Beeman........... parenting: Calming childhood anxiety ............................. nutrition: Making preschool food allergy-safe................... great goods: What we love today............................22 fitness: Does exercise matter? ...................................... nutrition: Baby-led weaning, skip purées? ...................... feature: 6 kid-friendly cafés ...........................................

34 36 32 27 10 20 16

also in this issue

ask the experts: Sleep issues........................................ 6 baby meets trail: Walks in Delta & Port Moody ............... 18 feature: Carving out ‘Mommy time’ ................................. 31 fitness: Pelvic floor muscles: regain control! ..................... 12 parenting: Creating quality time, single parents ................ 28 prenatal: Easing morning sickness, naturally .................... 14 prenatal: Overview of pregnancy stages ......................... 38 on the town: Fall family fun, pumpkin patches ................... 8 resource directory ............................................. 43 - 47 Material appearing herein may not be reproduced in print or electronically without written permission of the publisher, and without proper credit. Editorial opinions and viewpoints may not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

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| urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

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& QA ask Crystal DiNicolo, Sleep Sense (www. sleepsense.net/ vancouver) sleep consultant

Q: My newborn baby takes little naps all day long and never sleeps for longer than one hour at a time. How can I get him to sleep for longer stretches? A: It is very common for newborns to have short, fragmented sleep during the day. The fastest way to encourage your little one to take longer naps is to put your baby down in his crib when he is drowsy, and before he is

Baby naps & sleep in travel fully asleep in your arms. Your main goal is working toward helping your baby learn to fall asleep without any external “props,” such as being nursed or rocked to sleep. The most effective way to achieve this is to give him the opportunity to develop some of his own selfsoothing strategies for falling asleep. It is also important to note that newborns can only tolerate about 45 minutes to one hour of awake time before overtiredness sets in (which can make a restful, long nap very difficult to achieve), so it’s best to put him down sooner rather than later. Sleep well!

| urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

ask Helen Sands,

Hushababy (www.hushababy.com) sleep consultant Q: We’re taking our three-month-old baby back east to visit grandparents. How do I handle his sleep with the time change and travel? A: There are many things you can do to ensure your child’s world is not rocked too much! Remember that babies in this age group are probably not as fragile as first thought in terms of what they can cope with, and once they reach the age of three months, are

probably easier to travel with than older babies! So, here are some tips on how to ensure the trip is not horrendous. • Airline Travel: If your baby experiences any discomfort in the plane during take off or landing, it is wise to have him “sucking” on something, so breastfeeding, sucking a bottle, soother or sippy cup will help. If the airline dictates that baby must not be in your lap (for nursing), you should offer the bottle or soother. Of course, if your baby is asleep during take off and landing, don’t disturb him! (Please cont’d on page 40

urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 2010 |

on the

town

Throughout SEP: Minievents at Maplewood Farm, 405 Seymour River Place, North Vanc. Mini-events, like spreading straw for goats, feeding the sheep, and milking a cow, resume in September at this much-loved animal farm. Info: 604-929-5610 or maplewoodfarm.bc.ca SEP 12, 10 am - 4 pm: Southlands Country Fair, 7025 MacDonald St, Vanc. A fun-filled day for the whole family. Rain or shine. Entry by donation. Some activities may cost a small fee, but there are plenty of free activities. Info: 604-351-5522 or southlandsridingclub.com SEP 25, starts with Harvest Fair at 4 pm: Renfrew Ravine Moon Festival, Slocan Park,

Fantastic fall family Renfrew Park & Field, Vanc. Food, music, art, lantern parade, fireworks. Info: 604-257-8388 or stillmoon.org SEP 26, 11 am - 5 pm: The Word on the Street Festival, Library Square, on Robson between Hamilton & Homer, Vanc. Storytelling, giant wordsearch, kids-only scavenger hunt. Info: thewordonthestreet.ca to SEP 26, every weekend: Richmond Night Market, 12631 Vulcan Way, Richmond. Entertainment, shopping, food stalls, and buskers. Info: summernightmarket.com OCT 3, 11 am - 4 pm: Bellies to Babies Celebration, Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Dr, Vanc. A one-of-a-kind event for new and

expectant parents to explore and shop. First 100 moms in attendance will receive a complimentary diaper bag. Admission is by donation to Basics for Babies. Sponsored by urbanbaby & toddler magazine. Info: belliestobabiescelebration. com OCT 8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 31: Stanley Park Ghost Train at Stanley Park Miniature Train, Vancouver. Get spooked at this annual event. Includes the Haunted Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Farmyard and other activities. Advance tickets available through Ticketmaster at 604-280-4444 or ticketmaster. ca. Info: 604-257-8531 or vancouver.ca/parks/events/ ghosttrain

OCT 9 - 31, 10 am - 5 pm: Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Halloween Fair & Train, 13750 - 88th Ave, Surrey. Train ride, crafts, games, treats and pumpkins. Admission applies. Info: 604-501-1232 or bctrains.com OCT 16 - 17, 11 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 pm: UBC Apple Festival, UBC Botanical Garden, Vancouver. Participate in apple tasting, see demos of cider-pressing, enjoy the entertainment. Admission: $2 per adult; free for children under 12. Info: ubcbotanical garden.org OCT 22 - 31: Wanna Know Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Really Scary?, Vancouver Aquarium, Stanley Park, Vanc. Info: visitvanaqua.org NOV 13, 9 am - 1 pm: Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Swap Meet, Cloverdale Fairgrounds, 6050 176 St,

AQUAVENTURES

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fun Cloverdale. New and gently used items for sale. Everything for baby and beyond. Info: 604-588-9919 DEC 5, 1 pm: Rogers Santa Claus Parade, Downtown Vanc. Vancouver’s annual parade tradition. Dazzling floats, an appearance by Santa himself, treats, music, dancing and more. Info: rogerssantaclausparade. com.

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DEC 10 - JAN 2, 4:30 - 9 pm: 2010 Festival of Lights, VanDusen Botanical Garden, 5251 Oak St, Vanc. Highlights include Santa’s livingroom, dancing lights, Gingerbread Wood, community choir concerts, and lots and lots of twinkling lights. Info: vandusen. org ]

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pumpkin patches • * Aldor Acres, 24990 84th Ave, Langley, 604-888-0788, aldoracres.com • * The Applebarn Pumpkin Farm, 333 Gladwin Rd, Abbotsford, 604-853-3108, applebarn.ca • * Chilliwack Corn Maze, 41905 Yale Road West, Chilliwack, 604-819-6203, chilliwackcornmaze.com • Chu Lin Farm, 17535 40 Ave, Surrey, 604-574-0268

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* Denotes those that offer family activities and fun too • * Hazelmere Pumpkin Patch, 18507 20 Ave, Surrey, 604-992-7748 • * Laity Pumpkin Patch, 21145 128 St, Maple Ridge, 604-467-4302, http://members.shaw.ca/joshscherban/ • * The Pumpkin Patch at Richmond Country Farms, 12900 Steveston Hwy, Richmond, 604-274-0522, countryfarms.ca

SLEEPING BABIES ARE HAPPY BABIES... if your infant or toddler isn't getting the sleep they need, help is available.

private consultations. group seminars. practical solutions. Call Crystal DiNicolo 604 469 7077 www.sleepsense.net /vancouver urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 2010 |

by Dr. Karen Nordahl, fitness consultant

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Exercise and preconception: Is there an impact on fertility? In December 2007, Dr. Adam Balen et al from Leeds Teaching Hospital in the UK published an article in ‘Human Fertility’ which looked at the impact of obesity on female reproductive health. (1) Overweight is defined as any woman who has a BMI of greater than 25. It is further defined as pre-obesity (25 to 29.9 BMI) obesity (30 to 34.9 BMI), severe obesity (35 to 39.9 BMI) or morbid obesity (BMI greater than 40). In addition to BMI, the amount of abdominal fat is important (the greater the abdominal circumference, the more abdominal fat present). The medical research has found that the rate of miscarriage increases in women who weigh more at the time of conception. This was found if the woman conceived naturally or via IVF. There is a

Does theory that this may be due to the woman being ‘insulin resistant,’ in other words, she is less sensitive to insulin that her body produces. This can be associated the “PCOS” or polycystic ovarian disease, another cause of infertility. The chances of success with IVF treatments has also been found to be in part determined by the woman’s weight at the time of treatment. In New Zealand, there is a movement to restrict assisted reproduction treatments to those women whose BMI is less than 32. This decision is based on the risks of the treatment to the woman and her offspring (Farquhar 2006). The study found that higher doses of hormones can be required to achieve pregnancy in the women with higher BMIs. Increasing the risk to both the mother and baby. In Britain, there is a kinder approach. The British Fertility Society recognizes that weight issues are sensitive ones, but recommend that women should aim for a normal BMI before starting treatment for infertility. Ideally, the BMI should be less than 35, but in younger women, a BMI of less than 30 is preferable. The difference is due to the fact that in theory, younger women have a longer amount of time available to conceive, so aggressive weight management has more time to work. In Canada, there is no ‘fixed

exercise matter? policy’ yet. Women are advised to reduce their weight prior to commencing IVF, but there are not any ‘strict’ regulations. What does this all mean to you? The answer should be obvious. If we know that the best way to lose weight is by a combination of diet and exercise, and that women are the most motivated for lifestyle changes prior to conception or when she is pregnant...get exercising! It is also one of your only opportunities to change a behaviour that may impact future generations. Exercise and pregnancy Research has demonstrated over and over again that exercise during a normal pregnancy is safe, but can it also be beneficial? The short answer is ‘yes.’ We already know that exercise during pregnancy can reduce the incidence of pregnancyinduced high blood pressure and diabetes in a woman. Some current research suggests that it may even go further in helping maintain the good health of the mother and her baby. For very unit increase in pre-pregnancy BMI, there is an eight percent

increased risk of the woman developing pregnancy induced hypertension, but what happens when you are already pregnant? Ideally, it is most beneficial to lower BMI prior to conception, but exercise during pregnancy (regular aerobic exercise most if not all days of the week (ACOG 2002)) can lower the incidence of both gestational diabetes and pregnancy induced high blood pressure in the pregnant woman. The risk of mom and baby complications during pregnancy increases the more overweight the woman, both at the time of conception and delivery. There is also a direct relationship between the mother’s prepregnancy BMI and her risk for cesarean section, either as an elective csection, or in an emergency. This appears to be due to a combination of several factors: larger babies, longer labour, a higher requirement for labour induction with oxytocin and fetal distress. This could also be due to the higher incidence of the conditions mentioned earlier, gestational diabetes and pregnancy-induced hypertension. ]

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urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 2010 | 11

by Leanne Davis, certified personal trainer

Pelvic floor muscles:

fitness

ou laugh. You sneeze. You cough. You...pee your pants?! Every pregnant woman and new mom can relate to the brandnew sensation that is caused by your pelvic floor muscles. So how can you train them so they’re at their functional best? Imagine a basket of support for your pelvic organs, including your uterus, connecting your pubis bone at the front of your tailbone at the back. Now imagine a baby in the basket. Talk about pressure! Perfecting the Kegel exercise can improve the peeing-

the-pants issue of stress incontinence, pregnancyinduced hemorrhoids and provide overall core strength. To work effectively, pelvic floor function is all about balance. Your pelvic floor should work with your deep-core back multifidus muscles and your transverse abdominals to support your spine, pelvic joints and those pesky and often leaky pelvic organs, the bladder and rectum. A tired and stretched pelvic floor may leave you with organ prolapse, where your pelvic organs fall and bulge into your vagina. Lovely. According to

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12 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

the physiotherapy team at BC Women’s Hospital, the biggest mistake women make when it comes to Kegel exercises for the pelvic floor is “not doing them at all.” So what is a Kegel? How do you do one? A Kegel is the contraction and relaxation of your pelvic floor muscles. You may have heard of the stoppingthe-flow-of-urine method of Kegels. Yes, those are the muscles you are trying to isolate but urine stoppage is not a good way to train them and can lead to a urinary tract infection. Physiotherapist Diane Lee, promotes using a cue that works for you. Maybe it’s “urethral squeeze?” Or, “vaginal lift.” Or, thinking of “drawing your anus to the back of your pubic bone.” Whatever you choose, the perineum should lift. Trickier than it seems! Can you isolate your pelvic floor without squeezing your buns, without tightening your abdominals or tensing your inner thighs? Oh yes, and you have to breathe as well,

exhaling as you Kegel. Kegels can be done anywhere and you don’t need any equipment. Kegels are not obvious to any observer. Try the following pelvic floor exercises: Exercise #1: Hold’ems Contract the muscles around the vagina and your anal and urinary sphincters. Try holding for five seconds to start and then relax. Don’t forget to breathe and make sure your buns, abdominals and inner thighs are relaxed. Build up to holding the contraction for 10 seconds and repeat 10 times in one set. Exercise #2: Elevators Imagine you are in an elevator on the first floor. Begin contracting your pelvic floor muscles and continue pulling up, up, up to the second and third “floor.” Now, reverse your contraction, slowly releasing the contraction as you come back down to the first floor and relax. Try for five elevator repetitions in one set. Exercise #3: Speed’ems Contract your pelvic floor

regain control! quickly and strongly and relax. Try five repetitions in a row and work up to 30 repetitions in one set. Learning to strengthen the pelvic floor is key but equally important is â&#x20AC;&#x153;surrenderâ&#x20AC;? or letting go. Balancing training exercises with relaxation is critical if you want to avoid â&#x20AC;&#x153;pushing your baby through a brick wallâ&#x20AC;? of pelvic floor muscles as the BC Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s physio team so put it. The uterus and abdominal wall should do the pushing as the pelvic floor relaxes to allow babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth. Who can help? For those giving birth at BC Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospital, the physiotherapy department offers a free postpartum workshop up to six weeks after birth. You can ask any embarrassing question in the comforting company of new moms suffering similar indignities. The class also covers pelvic floor exercises,

back-care techniques and breastfeeding, carrying, stroller posture tips. If you are having problems with pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence or just want to know if you are kegeling correctly, seek the help of a physiotherapist who specializes in pelvic floor function. Some even offer ultrasound imaging to show you in real-time which muscles you are actually squeezing. Having a core of steel does not necessarily mean you have strong pelvic floor muscles. During pregnancy and after giving birth, it may feel like you have zero control over whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;down there.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Your ligaments may be stretched, your pelvic floor taking a holiday and your bladder not quite back where it should be but have faith! The best advice from the experts? Do you Kegels and keep doing them! ]

Locations WestÂ VancouverÂ Â 2008Â ParkÂ RoyalÂ South 604.913.7713 westvancouver@cefa.ca Burnaby-CanadaÂ WayÂ Â 4970Â CanadaÂ WayÂ Â 604.299.2373 burnaby@cefa.ca Langley 100-19950Â 88thÂ AvenueÂ EastÂ Â 604.881.2332 langley@cefa.ca NorthÂ VancouverÂ Â 402-935Â MarineÂ Drive 604.929.2332 northvancouver@cefa.ca NewÂ WestminsterÂ Â 725Â CarnarvonÂ StreetÂ Â 604.777.0053 newwestminster@cefa.ca WhiteÂ Rock 15300Â CroydonÂ DriveÂ Â 778.294.2646 whiterock@cefa.ca VancouverÂ Â 2946Â CommercialÂ DriveÂ Â 604.879.2332 vancouver@cefa.ca Richmond 5V 9VHKÂ° 604.275.2332 richmond@cefa.ca Burnaby-KingswayÂ LocationÂ COMINGÂ SOON! 604.299.2373 burnaby@cefa.caÂ (pending) CoquitlamÂ LocationÂ COMINGÂ SOON!Â (pending)

urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 2010 | 13

by Dr. Emilie Salomons

prenatal Easing morning sickness,

orning sickness’ (or nausea gravidarum) can range from an annoying nagging nausea when you first wake up, to hyperemesis gravidarum, a dangerous disorder of continuous nausea and vomiting which can lead to serious health complications for both you and your baby. Although the true cause of morning sickness is still poorly understood, there are several longstanding theories on why women develop this condition in their first trimester. One theory is that nausea is caused by either a higher level of hormones like HCg and estrogen, or simply an increased sensitivity to these hormones. Another is that the nausea is due to fluctuating blood sugar levels in the first trimester. Fatigue and stress are not causes but have been proven to make nausea worse. Here are some basic

suggestions to reduce morning sickness, gathered by the true experts in the field: mothers who have been through it all and come out the other side. Eat regularly Most mothers agree that eating regularly is the number one tool for keeping nausea at bay. Help regulate your blood sugar levels by eating regular small meals throughout the day. You may need to keep crackers, trail mix or other snacks with you at work or in your purse if you are going out for a few hours. If your morning sickness actually happens in the morning, you may want to get up in the night to have a small simple snack or keep some soda crackers on your bedside table and eat a few first thing when you wake before you get out of bed. Choose bland food and avoid strong aromas Because of a heightened sense of smell, strong odours

14 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

may be enough to prevent you from eating. Avoid ruining your appetite by not cooking with very pungent or distinct flavours unless you are specifically craving them. Basic bland foods are usually a safe bet. Avoid greasy foods; they can aggravate a sensitive stomach. But mainly, listen to your body. Often women crave specific foods for a reason. So if you can’t stop thinking about raspberries or hot chocolate, go for it. Start with a little and see how your body reacts. Use pressure on wrist Most commonly used for motion sickness, this is an easy way to subdue the nausea without having to consume anything. This may also be used to alleviate the nausea long enough for you to eat something. There are two options for stimulating the point, one is with your thumb, and the other is a wristband with a

hard plastic bead sewn on the inside called Seaband (at many pharmacies and pregnancyrelated stores). The point location is roughly two inches from the wrist crease. To find the point, place two to three fingers on your forearm arm starting at the wrist crease; the point is between the two prominent tendons. If acupressure is not strong enough, you may want to try acupuncture with a licensed professional; it which will have a stronger and longer lasting effect. Norah, 26, found acupuncture the most helpful for quelling her nausea. “I tried a few different things but acupuncture gave me the longest period of relief… eating small meals was also pretty helpful.” Drink ginger/honey tea For centuries, ginger has been a home remedy for nausea and vomiting. Most people can remember being given gingerale for stomach flu.

While I don’t suggest gingerale because of the high sugar content, a cup of ginger honey tea may be all you need to reduce nausea. Grate ginger into a cup, pour in boiling water and let steep for four to five minutes or until you get a palatable ginger taste; add honey if you need a sweetener. Use cold tea for hot days. Take vitamin B6 Another remedy growing in popularity, is supplementing your diet with Vitamin B6. Ruth Comfort, a registered midwife and mother in Vancouver, advises, “...Try taking 25 mg of vitamin B6 orally up to six times a day; this can help shut off the ‘nausea control centre’ in your brain.” Reduce or split intake of prenatal vitamins Some women have noticed that nausea starts or is increased when they take their prenatal vitamins. If this is the case for you, try reducing

the dose of the vitamins or split up the dose by having half in the morning and half in the evening. Ruth Comfort also suggests that if taking small doses does not stop the nausea; try switching to a minimum of 0.4 mg of plain folic acid per day for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Shannon 34, mentioned that she vomited when she took her prenatal pills on an empty stomach, and that she no longer suffered any problems as long as she remembered to eat before taking her vitamins. There are a lot of different tricks for keeping pregnancy related nausea and vomiting at bay. You may need to try a few before you find something that works. Remember, drink lots of water to avoid dehydration. ]

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etting out with the kids is an important part of the daily routine. But as entertaining as the park can be, sometimes you need something for you. With a babe in tow, you may miss going out for a coffee, a bite to eat or even a drink (or two). Having kids doesn’t mean you have to skip this favourite pastime; you just need to find the right place to go. Here are some great venues that both you and your little one can enjoy.

6 kida retro feel and the designated kids’ section is a flashback to the ‘60s and ‘70s using old wooden toys, school desks and highchairs. Come hungry, because the menu of local and sustainable fare is amazing including a list of homemade jams, earthy breads, veggie scrambles, refreshing salads and baked goods. We highly recommend the raison baguette and fig and rosemary jam. Definitely a place to which mom can escape (and kids too). Kitchen closes at 3 pm, café at 4 pm. Info: littlenest.ca 1719 Charles St, Vancouver, 604-251-9994

Little Nest Located in the heart of Commercial Drive, this charming café is the perfect destination for anyone who seeks an eclectic atmosphere and wholesome food. Whether you are heading out with the kids or on your own there is a seat for you to enjoy. All the décor has Little Nest’s retro-style play area.

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friendly cafés Munch Designed for any age and any outing, the theme at Munch is cool space and lots of it. Over 1,000 square feet allows for a separate wooden play land for the kids. This natural kingdom houses a collection of wooden toys, rocking horses, trucks, and a climbing castle. Meanwhile the older gang can play too, by sitting back with some great food at the large spacious tables. Check out the specialized perks at Munch for both parents and kids such as; Kids eat free after 4 pm on Monday and Tuesday nights with purchase of an adult entrée, plus Nannies on Call supervises the play area on Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights, 5 pm to 8 pm. Info: munchmunch.ca 1233 Lynn Vallley Rd, North Vancouver 604-980-3287

Rocky Mountain Flatbread If you’re looking for more than a coffee consider the Rocky Mountain Flatbread Company for lunch or dinner with friends. Choose from a selection of yummy organic pizzas (like sundried tomato and goat cheese to tempt your palette), antipasto plates,

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by Kim Connelly

babymeets trail

Family-friendly nature

ired of the same old outings with the stroller? Been around the neighbourhood too many times to count? This issue’s ‘baby meets trail’ article features two stroller- and family-friendly walks around Metro Vancouver to help you soak in the beauty of the fall foliage. Deas Island Regional Park, Delta If you’ve never been on Deas Island, chances are you’ve at least been under it. Located atop the George Massey Tunnel, the park offers plenty of variety for its relatively compact size. The name is actually a bit of a misnomer, since

Deas Island Regional Park in Delta: Shoreline view

the “island” has long been connected to the mainland with a roadway. If you can overlook the inaccuracy of its name, the park is a lovely spot to kick

through piles of fallen leaves and enjoy a quiet stroll. Getting there: From the south end of the George Massey Tunnel. Take the

second exit and follow the signs for River Road North. A short distance along River Road, you will see signage marking the park entrance. Turn in and park in the first parking lot. Terrain: Wide, flat trails of loose gravel with lengthy sections of sand. The route winds its way through trees along the shores of the island, so expect a fair bit of shade. Stroller recommendation: In general, large-wheeled strollers will have an easier time on these trails. Umbrella strollers are not recommended. Length: Departing from the first parking lot, the trail runs

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walks in Delta & Port Moody less than 5 km (return). With a few looping options, it’s easy to customize your walk depending on your available time (or how long junior sleeps). Family-friendly features: Benches, washrooms (no change tables), picnic tables and large grassy areas are all readily available. Kids young and old may enjoy watching the cars stream into the tunnel from this unique vantage point. Scenic highlights: It’s not every day you get to see a shipwreck, but that’s exactly what you’ll see across the water from the southern side of the island. There is also a

low tide beach located near the tip of the island which offers a spectacular spot to stop for lunch or just to watch the boat traffic along the river. The views of the Fraser River and Deas Slough are lovely from the trails, but are best seen from atop the viewing tower. Nearby attractions: There are a number of horse stables nearby and the community of Ladner is a short drive down River Road. On the island itself are a few heritage buildings including Delta Agricultural Hall (1894), Burrvilla, a grand home (1906), and Inverholme, oneroom schoolhouse (1909). Good to know: Dogs must

be on a leash at all times. Bikes are only permitted on the roadways throughout the park. Shoreline Park Pathway, Port Moody The Shoreline Park Pathway is fantastic any time of year, but particularly in the fall when it offers some of the most spectacular views of Burrard Inlet and the seasonal colours of fall. Connecting Rocky Point Park on the south side of the inlet to Old Orchard Park on the north side, the route is a smooth, paved pathway, perfect for either a leisurely stroll or a heart-pumping power walk

Shoreline Park Pathway in Port Moody: Heron statues perched along the Shoreline Park path

with baby. More adventurous stroller walkers may want to cont’d on page 40

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by Christina Stewart

nutrition

id you ever consider giving your six-monthold a chunk of carrot to munch on? Or letting your seven-month-old gnaw on a broccoli “tree?” Some parents are choosing to do just that. But don’t call Social Services just yet; they are practising Baby-led weaning or BLW. And this UK trend has made its way into Canadian kitchens. Baby-led weaning as a philosophy of feeding was created by a British mom of three who wrote a book about BLW in 2006. Gill Rapley was a health visitor, or what we would likely call a registered nurse, who became disenfranchised

Baby’s first foods: one with the process of puréeing food for her young son and freezing it into ice cube trays. She found herself relieved when at about six months old, he became more interested in food on her and her husband’s plates. They let him pick small bits of their “real food” for his own dinner. This planted the seed that led to Rapley studying babies’ developmental readiness for solids as part of her master’s degree program— the theory of baby-led weaning was born. What is baby-led weaning? BLW is a method of introducing pieces of food rather than blended food as

20 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

first foods for your infant. You skip the purée stage altogether. The idea behind BLW is that your baby will have more control over her food intake by self-feeding right from the start of the eating process. And it’s easier for parents to prepare. “This isn’t about switching from breastfeeding to food but rather the introduction of certain whole foods along with breast milk,” cautions Helen Yeung a registered dietitian with Vancouver Coastal Health. It makes sense to Yeung that this theory of feeding babies has taken off. “It used to be common to switch a child off nursing between four and six

months old, and then about four years ago federal guidelines changed to recommending that food be introduced no earlier than six months. A four-month-old can handle only purées but a six-month-old can handle whole foods. It’s developmentally better to wait to introduce food until a baby is six months,” says Yeung. You should offer your baby a range of foods to provide a balanced diet from around six months, however some babies will wait until seven or eight months before they show any interest in self-feeding. The intention behind this process is that it is tailored to suit

*Name changed by request

method says to skip purĂŠes each particular baby and their personal development. What foods can your new eater handle? For parents who would like an option beyond purĂŠeing food and trying to entertain their baby long enough to get a few spoonfuls of that purĂŠe into their little mouths BLW makes sense. But where to start? Yvonne Fraser a Burnaby mom of two spent â&#x20AC;&#x153;countless hours purĂŠeing, freezing and thawing over and againâ&#x20AC;? to feed her first child once her

daughter began eating. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feed her a soupy mix of green one day and a soupy mix of orange the next. The food never seemed appealing to me and it was a lot of work,â&#x20AC;? says Fraser. When her second daughter was about five months old Fraser came across an online post about BLW. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The more I read, the more excited I became,â&#x20AC;? says Fraser. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I knew this time around the transition to food was going to be so much easier.â&#x20AC;? And it was. Fraser started with bits of well

cooked carrots and cauliflower which her daughter devoured. Yeung says cooked vegetables are a great place to start. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Examples of foods to introduce to a six-month-old are bits of chopped vegetables such as cooked carrots or broccoli or fruits such as a whole chunk of cooked apple. It will smush right up and can easily be ingested,â&#x20AC;? says Yeung. Meats are tougherâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; even firm tofu is harderâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;so chopped pieces are better than larger chunks, suggests Yeung.

However, fish doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be mashed; it can just be cut into small pieces. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The idea of giving your baby what you as an adult are eating without the salt, sugar or spices is great,â&#x20AC;? says Yeung. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Although we do promote the use of herbs for flavour,â&#x20AC;? she adds. Is it safe? Some parents have concerns with this type of feeding. The worry is that a six-month-old that has not been exposed to food before contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 40

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ribbit-ing tote By Crocodile Creek, this back sack is simple but practical. This no-nonsense bag is sized especially for children. It has a water-resistant lining and hidden inner pocket for keys, notes or small change. 13” w x 16.5” h. Retails for $20. Find it: Pebble, 2375 Arbutus St, Vancouver or www.pebblebaby.com

Little Life’s butterfly pack is big enough to hold everything a girl might need on a day trip, and comes with a removable parent’s safety rein (for those that tend to wander!). Also features top grab handle, adjustable shoulder straps, and chest strap to prevent pack from slipping. For ages 6 months to 3 years. Retails for $44.99. Find it: www.activebaby.ca

got the lunchies? By Skip Hop, Zoo Lunchies make mealtimes or snacking on the go, fun. Sized just for kids, these lunch bags sport fun animal characters including owls, penguins, bees, monkeys and kittens. Features an insulated wipe-clean interior (that holds a lot of stuff!) to keep items warm or cold, inside mesh pocket and clip-on handle that attaches to any backpack. BPA-, phthalate- and PVC-free. Retails for about $16. Find it: EIO!, 3404 Cambie St, Vancouver; www.raspberrykids.com; jack & lola, 135 West 1st St, North Vancouver 22 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

smart food storage A safe and easy way to store and heat your baby’s food. Made of silicone, the brightly coloured Little Bites storage jars come with well-fitting lids. They’re dishwasher-, refrigerator-, freezer- and microwavesafe. Great for packing, heating and serving up baby’s meals or tot’s snacks. Comes in two sizes: Bigger Bites - $24.99 (set of 2); and Little Bites - $24.99 (set of 4). Find it: www.raspberrykids.com; Pebble, 2675 Arbutus St, Vancouver, www.pebblebaby.com

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great goods

eco-colour What colour is your eco-consciousness? Now, any colour you want! Made from recycled newspaper, the Wildlife Series Color Pencils by O’BON come in a pack of 12—that’s enough to satisfy any child’s artistic endeavours. They are nontoxic, water-resistant and last longer than ordinary wood pencils. And because they’re not made of wood, they’re also splinter-free! Retails for $8.50. Find it: www.lavishandlime.com

drinks to go The Thirsty Tote by Built NY lets you bring baby’s sippy cup or bottle with you wherever you go while keeping it warm or cold. Machine-washable, attaches to strollers, car seats or diaper bags. Made of soft SBR. Insulates up to 4 hours. Retails for $10.50. Find it: Pebble, 2675 Arbutus St, Vancouver, www.pebblebaby.com

stick ‘em on The designer collection Name Dots by Stuck On You will stay stuck, helping keep your little one’s possessions very cutely identified. There are 13 motifs including Seaside, Bug Mania and Cupcakes. Each name dot is 26mm in diameter and fits 18 characters. Available in a pack of 50. Retails for $29.95. Find it: www.stuckonyou.biz

write on! What a fun way to bring the chalkboard into your decor. By Vinyl Attraction, these semipermanent vinyl decals can be written on with chalk and then cleaned with a damp cloth. Many different styles are available including butterfly (17” x 22”) and dolphin (11” x 22”). You can even peel off the vinyl and restick it multiple times. Prices range from $19.95 and $29.95. Find it: www.vinylattraction.com

eco-chic lunch Mimi the Sardine Lunch Bug lunch bags are so darned cheerful. This reusable lunch bag features a sturdy zipper, is lined with the reverse fabric inside, wipes clean easily, and can be machine washed and dried. Made of water-based acrylic-coated organic cotton fabric without any harmful chemicals. Retails for $24. Find it: www.lavishandlime.com

24 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

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great goods

kids’ shoes made from recycled materials From Calgary-based Little Soles, this fall, comes a line of children’s shoes that is made almost completely out of recycled materials! Hallelujah! The New ECO Squeaky Collection includes six new styles, with two new Squeaky Boots for fall. The newest fall/winter styles are toxin free, and constructed with leathers that are recycled remnants and outsoles from recycled rubber. Who says you can’t be stylish and green? Retails for $36.95 to $38.95. Find it: jack & lola, 135 West 1st St, North Vancouver; find other retailers at www.littlesolesshoestore.com

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urban kids’ clothes These edgy fashions by Appaman are über urban-chic. From the houndstooth long-sleeve romper for baby ($36, bottom left) to the cool black motorcycle jacket for girls ($104, top left), the retro vest ($59, bottom right) to the girly-but-modern ruffle dress ($56, top right), this new fall collection is so fun and unique. Be sure to check out the new lines. Find it: jack & lola, 135 West 1st St, North Vancouver; Hip Baby, 2110 West 4th Ave, Vancouver.

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simple and sweet Made of 100% organic cotton that is a soft textured knit, the Cotton Dress by Green Bean Baby is made for toddlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comfort. We love that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manufactured in Canada! Retails for $34. Find it: Baby on Board, Richmond Centre Mall or 3025 Lougheed Hwy, Coquitlam; Room for Two Maternity, 1409 Commercial Drive, Vancouver; Pebble, 2675 Arbutus Street, Vancouver, www.pebblebaby.com; www.activebaby.ca

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by Blair Yochim

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monumental task, especially as a single parent? Though certainly challenging, it can be done. None of us is perfect and we will make mistakes. Regardless, much of our interactions with our children will be positive and even some of our mistakes might just be potential learning experiences for our children and us. It’s all about creating good memories: Spending quality time with our children doing activities that will leave a lasting positive impact is key. And the fun comes either in the

activities themselves, or from the positive environment and attitude with which we embrace an activity. Goals to consider: Sometimes fun for fun’s sake is great. However, because we are preparing our children for their futures, we must also be conscientious and deliberately ponder, “What goals do I want to achieve with my children?” It is so easy to get caught up dealing with the stresses of life forgetting to be mindful of which direction or influence we should attempt with our

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time with kids:

single parents children. Goals could be in categories such as education, physical activity, spirituality, responsibility/discipline, social skills, creativity or simply entertainment. Balance among the goals will also provide variety and fun. There are many ways to approach it too. Sometimes one activity incorporates multiple goals. Sometimes a goal will direct what activity we want to choose, or sometimes the activity will foster a goal. Pay special attention to ‘discipline’ as it is perhaps the most difficult skill to pass on.

Get the kids involved in the decisions too!: Kids, as well as everyone else, love it when they can look forward to some event in advance. Also children feel more involved and responsible when they have a role in the decision-making for activities. Years ago, once a week after a meal, I had “family meetings” with my toddler kids when we planned some event(s) for the upcoming weekend. We also alternated who conducted the “meeting” and we took minutes to record our plans and ideas. This may sound too formal

and business-like. Perhaps it is, however it ensured that we as a family spent time together at least once a week, planned fun things, and discussed issues. In addition to planning the weekend, we also discussed family problems and whatever issues that any of us had, working towards solving them maturely. I now cherish our “minutes book” and have fond memories of my children bringing their issues to the table. Money: It is be no secret that many typical options will cost the family money and very often

the cost will be prohibitive, especially to a single parent on a very limited budget. Again, balance is important. As the family budget permits, once in a while maybe there’s enough to splurge on an expensive activity and hopefully create a lasting memory. But for most of the activities, costs will be have to be minimal or zero. That in itself is a very valuable lesson to teach our children about budget limitations, because it will teach them to become budget conscious and financially responsible cont’d on page 42

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by Daniela Ginta

feature Carve out ‘Mommy time’

am a mom. Hence a multitasker, like most moms. And like many moms, I was never a great believer in taking time for myself. Why? Maybe I never had the time to think about it. All it took was a special birthday gift I got from close friends: a couple of hours of babysitting, so I could have some time for myself—as much as I felt like taking, they said. Three hours later, I was a changed woman. I loved every second of being by myself, while knowing that my kids were well taken care of. While some moms establish clear boundaries on “mommy time,” most of us can’t even go into the bathroom by ourselves without our little ones following close behind. The need to have time for ourselves is not selfish but necessary and oh, so real. Where to start and how, you are wondering? Read on and get ready to change your life. Your family will be happy too. Start really simple. The hurried times in which we live allow for little if any time for self. If hiring a babysitter so you can have a night out with your friends seems an unattainable goal, do not worry. Start really simple, suggests Julia James, a certified life coach in Vancouver and author of The Mini-Retreat Solution (Sparknotes 2010). “Start with the simple things that we all do, taking a shower, washing your hands. They can become moments to relax and to recharge,” says James. Seems too simple? Yes and no. Forget

about chores, finances and any nagging issues that you are facing right now. Take a shower and focus on yourself. The few minutes that you have should be dedicated to relaxing and meditating, advises James. If you take your little ones for a walk, take a few moments to look around, smell the air and remember the things you are grateful for. That is one of the most profound ways of connecting with your self. Create personal time where there seems to be none. Create moments where you can find yourself and recharge your batteries. Stuck in traffic? Instead of being tense and anxious about being late (which you cannot change anyway) or simply frustrated with the slow moving traffic, allow yourself to see those moments in a different light—no pun intended. “Take your hands off the steering wheel, roll your shoulders backwards and stretch a little and by the time the light turns green you’ll feel quite relaxed,” suggests James. You have just offered yourself a break from feeling overwhelmed and instead dedicated those few moments to changing your perspective. A couple of deep breaths later you’ll find that sometimes it’s the little things that can make a difference. Remind yourself that you have the power to change the way you feel about a situation even though you have no control over that situation. If you have your children with you, never

underestimate the power of a snack and a good story or kids’ music CD. Set boundaries. Start when your children are young. And if you have not done it yet, fret not. There is still time. Setting boundaries means teaching children about your

personal space and yes, they will learn about theirs, too. When that space is invaded, frustration sets in. Did you ever get to the point where you feel as though your head is ready to explode and your cont’d on page 42

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by Melissa Martz

nutrition

ife-threatening food allergies in children are on the rise, and may soon be as common as having three TVs in the home. Preschool can be a scary word for both parent and child; and when severe food allergies are present, those uneasy feelings can multiply. Meghan of Waterloo, Ontario had many mixed feelings when she made the decision to send her son Gabe, then two-and-ahalf, to preschool in September 2008. Gabe has life-threatening allergies to all dairy, eggs, peanuts, and tree nuts, as well as severe allergies to sesame, and mustard. Would Gabe be safe at a preschool without Mommy there, allowing other adults to prepare and serve him food (the first time such an occurrence took place)? The answer to that question was a resounding and relieved “Yes!” From the initial meeting with preschool personnel, a sense of calm and reassurance came over Meghan and her husband, as their concerns and requests were listened to, and accommodation would be in place to ensure a safe environment for Gabe. One of the mandates of a Parent Participating Preschool that Gabe attended, is that parents take turns bringing and preparing snacks each day. Up to this point, snack choices were abundant and consisted of pretty much most any food. The accommodation made for Meghan and Gabe was that

Creating a food allergy-safe preschool Meghan provided a “GabeFriendly Snack List” by which everyone could by, so that every child is able to eat the same food. Surprisingly, there was actually a wide variety of foods from which parents could draw. This simple change really meant inclusion for Gabe. When people hear the word “inclusion,” at first blush, people automatically think of individuals with disabilities—disabilities that are physically present that is....not food allergies. In fact, under the Alberta, Ontario, and most other provinces, severe allergies are considered a disability because accommodations are necessary to ensure the safety, health, and well-being for those individuals. This is also a practice of Sabrina’s Law, effective as of 2005, after 13-year-old Sabrina Shannon died from anaphylaxis in her high school cafeteria, when others thought she was having an asthma attack. It is now law for all teachers, administrators, supply teachers, and parents at Parent Participating Preschools to be trained regularly on the use of EpiPens and the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction. For Gabe, inclusion in preschool meant that Gabe could sit among his peers at snack time, and eat the same foods as everyone else. Conversely, a friend of Gabe’s who also happens to share a few of the same food

32 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

allergies and attends a different preschool, was required to bring her own snack daily. She sat in a designated seat and watched carefully as the other preschool children sit at arm’s length from her and often eat the very food that is life-threatening for her. As a back-up plan at Gabe’s preschool, several packaged snacks are on hand and stored in the kitchen (foods the he knows he is allowed to eat) if he becomes nervous about eating certain foods or if parents accidentally bring a snack that isn’t from the approved snack list. As Gabe gets older, he is learning more about his allergies and the precautions he needs to take outside the home. Along with having two EpiPens ready at hand if needed (although fortunately Gabe has never had to have it administered), a safe snack list and good handwashing practise before snacktime, all children and adults at Gabe’s preschool wash their hands before they enter the classroom upon arrival to school, and make sure their teeth are brushed. The teeth brushing helps to reduce unwanted food residue (i.e., peanut butter from breakfast) being left on toys that go into a child’s mouth (i.e., house centre with the pretend food, utensils and tea cups). Having a restricted snack list has actually opened up parents’ minds to healthier snack options. Parents have

embraced the world of fruits and vegetables, an area that Iwas often bypassed the year before Gabe arrived at the preschool. Most parents are happier with the ‘approved’ snacks being served to the children since they are much healthier than the “junk food” some parents used to bring. Because of the overwhelming support of the healthy snack list, and even though Gabe is entering Junior Kindergarten in September 2010, the preschool is considering keeping the existing snack list for next September, and tweaking it to accommodate incoming children with different food allergies if need be. With a little work and accommodation a preschool can be a happy and safe environment for all concerned, including children with severe food allergies. If your preschooler has severe food allergies: • Choose a preschool where the same kids are there every day, rather than several classes each week (i.e., 2-, 3-, 4-day options); so there is no crosscontamination of foods. • Provide a modified snack list for all parents to follow. • Ensure good handwashing and teeth brushing practices in place. • Suggest anaphylaxis training for all adults involved. • Visit www.aaia.com (Allergy Asthma Information Association) for more information. ]

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by Emma Lee

celebrity mommy

Twice the fun for radio If you’re a morning commuter, chances are you know Amy Beeman as a co-host and producer of The Beat 94.5’s “The Kid Carson Show.” And if you’re a regular listener, you also know that she just gave birth—to twins! We recently spoke to Amy, a mere two days after she had given birth, when she conscientiously and graciously agreed to answer our questions about her experience as a new parent to Lucy and Sam. Photo credits: (above) Vicki Guzikowski of ElaBluePhotography.com (left) kimculbert.com

ubt: Prior to giving birth, what were you most afraid of when it came to labour and delivery? Were your fears founded? ab: I made sure everyone around me—my husband, my doctor, my doula, every nurse and doctor I encountered in the hospital—knew that I only wanted “one exit.” I was terrified I would have to do a combination vaginal/C-section birth (because Baby B was breech). Who wants to have to recover from both?! Thankfully, there was only one exit. I was fully dilated and getting ready to push when the doctor decided to do a

C-section (because of the size difference between the babies, she was concerned there would be issues getting Baby B out). A C-section wasn’t part of the original plan, but we all came out of it healthy, and that’s all that matters. That, and that there was only one exit! ubt: When did you find out you were having twins? What was your reaction when you found out? ab: We found out quite early, at eight weeks, that we were having twins. Even though we knew it was a possibility (we had two embryos transferred), it was still a bit of a shock at the ultrasound to hear “There’s

34 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

one... And there’s the other one!” ubt: What was the best part about your delivery? ab: The best part of the delivery was finding out if the babies were boys or girls. We were so happy we hadn’t found out the sexes ahead of time. It was really exciting to hear “It’s a girl!” And then, “And Baby B is a boy!” ubt: Was your husband present for the delivery? Was he helpful during the whole process? ab: Mark has been amazing through all of this! From giving me the shots for the invitro process, to rubbing my back

during the contractions to holding my hand during the C-section. And now he is the official diaper changer! I’m a very lucky lady. ubt: Did you hire a midwife or did you use an obstetrician for your pre-/post-natal care and delivery? How did you find it? ab: We had an obstetrician and a doula, Sarah Joseph. Unfortunately, Sarah wasn’t able to come into the operating room during the delivery, because it was too crowded (it is unbelievable how many people are in there!), but it was great to have her help during the contractions phase. And everyone at BC

host/new mom Amy Beeman for an class at Groundwork Athletics. That’s what I was doing before I got pregnant. I’ll also start running again and I can’t wait to try a Bar Method class. I used to do ballet so I’m hoping muscle memory will play a part in losing the baby weight!

Photo credit: JillianKirbyBaby.com

Women’s was amazing! Every nurse, every doctor, every specialist we saw gave us their undivided attention and really took an interest in us and in Sam and Lucy. ubt: What was your first thought when the babies were out and you saw them for the first time? ab: I couldn’t say a word. I was totally choked up. Mark and I have been trying to create a family for a long time and the moment it came true... It was priceless. ubt: How do you prepare the nursery for twins? Is it as simple as having two of everything? ab: We don’t even have two cribs! We live in an 800square-foot condo, so space is scarce. Lucy and Sam will be sharing a crib for a while. But we do have two bouncy chairs!

Every parent I’ve talked to says they are a necessity. I can’t wait until they fit into them. ubt: What is your plan for caring for twins? Will you and your husband hire help or are you going to do it on your own? ab: Mark is taking the first month off, then we’ve rented a suite for my mom for two months (she lives in Prince George). The help will be invaluable. Then we’ll be looking for volunteers after that! ubt: What could you not have when you were pregnant that you will indulge in now that you’ve had the babies? ab: Spicy tuna rolls! And hot dogs. And beer. Quite the combination. ubt: How do you plan on getting back in shape when the doctor gives you the OK? ab: I’ve already signed up

ab: I get a full year off, so I’ll be back on The Kid Carson Show on The Beat 94.5 in the spring/summer of 2011, with lots of stories to tell! ubt: What are your top three things to do now that you’ve had the babies?

ubt: You were very public ab: It’s only been a week about your pregnancy with so we’re still getting used to your blog, and on the air on having them! But here’s what The Kid Carson Show. Why we do so far... stare at them, did you decide to be open with sleep, and then stare at them your experience and was it again. positive? ab: Mark and I decided to be open about our experience with IVF because we want people to know they’re “not the only ones” having difficulties conceiving. I only received positive messages from people about my blog, tweets and things we discussed on the show. And I got some great advice from people! I enjoyed blogging throughout my pregnancy. It was fun to write about things I Photo credit: JillianKirbyBaby.com was experiencing, and I’ll have those posts to look back on. If only I had time ubt: Any advice for momsto write now! to-be now that you’re a newly minted mom yourself? ubt: What’s your maternity ab: Enjoy it! It’s all pretty leave plan and when will you amazing. ] return to work? urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 2010 | 35

by Marilee Peters

Calming childhood

feature

y good friends Dave and Jackie are getting worried about their son, Tobias. He’s a pretty regular little guy—loves to play soccer with his Dad, annoy his big sister, and is completely enamoured with all things Stars Wars. But more and more, his parents are noticing that his life is ruled, not by the things he loves, but by the things he’s afraid of. “He can’t go to the bathroom by himself anymore,” explains Jackie. “He’s still toilet trained, but he refuses to go into the bathroom on his own. Someone—usually me—has to be in the room with him.” Trips to play at the park down the road have stopped, because Tobias’ fear of animals means he becomes hysterical if he’s approached by a curious dog, if a squirrel runs by, or even if a bee buzzes in his ear. And the family’s basement playroom has been more or less abandoned, because Tobias will no longer venture down the stairs without one of his parents. “He’ll play in the livingroom, if I’m there or in the kitchen, but if I leave to go to one of the bedrooms, he’ll follow me. Or he’ll just start yelling ‘Mom, Mom, where are you going? When are you coming back?’ And if I don’t answer right away, he gets more and more panicky, until he’s screaming for me,” says Jackie. Tobias’s parents are at a loss, watching their formerly happy-go-lucky toddler turn

into an increasingly fearful, anxiety-ridden child. And they’re not alone. Studies suggest that childhood anxiety is on the rise in North America, and that up to 12 percent of children exhibit symptoms of anxiety disorders severe enough to interfere with their ability to function from day to day. Ironically, it’s statistics like this, as much as their son’s actual behaviour, that have Jackie and Dave worried. “I’ve Googled ‘childhood anxiety’ and it’s frightening stuff,” says Dave. “Obviously I don’t want my kid to have to go on medication, but on the other hand if he’s actually got an anxiety disorder, it could really affect his development. The thing is, how do we know when it’s crossed the line? When is this no longer just normal childhood fears? When is it something we need to see a doctor about?” Parenting in the age of anxiety “We live in a time of heightened anxiety,” says Beth Hutchinson, provincial coordinator for the Parent-Child Mother Goose program in BC, “so it’s no surprise that our children are becoming more anxious. Parenting itself is becoming a source of anxiety. So many parents today are raising their children far from extended family, far from the networks and relationships that have traditionally sustained us as parents. Very often the parents I talk to feel quite

36 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

isolated. They have access to so much information, but to so few real resources that they can call upon to help them manage or to share the responsibility of raising their children.” “Parent-Child Mother Goose” is one of those resources. Offered in many communities around BC and throughout Metro Vancouver, it’s a parenting program that helps new mothers and fathers to build strong relationships with their infants, through the ageold oral traditions of singing, rhyming and storytelling. One of the reasons that parents love the program is the amazing repertoire of soothing lullabies and fun rhymes that they come away with—plus the new-found confidence to use their voices to sing a fussy baby to sleep, distract a bored toddler, or calm a stressed, crying child. Says Hutchinson, “One of the things that many parents find, is that singing a lullaby when their child is upset is not just soothing to the child, but to the parent as well. I’ve had parents tell me when they start singing a lullaby to their child, they actually calm down themselves, so that they don’t feel so desperate and they’re able to think rationally about how to handle the situation and help their child.” Finding healthy ways to manage our own stress as parents—whether it’s counting to 10, singing a lullaby, or having a friend we can talk to and share with openly—is

important, because caring for a child who is frequently upset, afraid, or anxious can be exhausting. According to Hutchinson, what’s key is for parents to realize that their child’s fears, as terrifying as they are to the child and as disruptive as they can be for the whole family, actually have a basis in healthy development. “Understanding and appreciating danger has been an important survival skill for human beings for thousands of years. It’s a good ability,” she says. “And having an active imagination is another good ability. It’s when those two things come together that we need to help children learn the difference between realistic fears and unrealistic fears, and to help them to manage their feelings of fear and worry.” Dad’s role “Listening to the emotional content of what our children are telling us about their fears is probably one of the most basic things we can do to help them,” notes David Sheftel. David heads up the Father Involvement Network of BC, an association of researchers, fathering advocates, and fathering program leaders in BC. “That can be a challenge for some dads, who may not be as comfortable as moms with talking about feelings. But listening, providing an empathetic, understanding ear, and helping young kids to find the words to voice their fears is really important. Not just dismissing their fears,

anxiety: what parents can do

but acknowledging that their feelings are real.” Because fathers often have more of a risk-taking role with their children, they can also help kids to feel confident about new situations. A child who clings to Mom at the door of the daycare may have no hesitation in marching right in when it’s Dad doing the morning drop-off duty. “Of course, every family’s different, but often the father is the parent who encourages children more to take risks, to explore, to try new things. And when the parent, whether it’s Mom or Dad, feels confident about their child going into a new situation, the child picks up on that,” explains Sheftel. Of course, that works both ways. Kids may also pick up on their parent’s feelings of anxiety. Says Sheftel, “Parents often don’t realize

how much their own childhood experiences may be affecting how they parent. I’ve worked with families where the child is really terribly upset about going to school, and if you lead the parents to talking about their own school experiences, they’ll say, ‘Oh I had an awful time at school, I was laughed at’, or ‘The teacher told me I was stupid.’ They have these very painful memories, and feelings of apprehensiveness for their children that they’re communicating, through their body language and mannerisms, through their expectations and hesitancies. So coming to terms with your own life experiences can be an important first step in helping your children deal with anxieties.” The tried and true Fortunately, there are some great tools out there

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that parents can use to help children learn to manage their anxieties. In fact, some you may be using already, without even realizing it. They’re called stories, games, and makebelieve, and parents have been using them for centuries. There is a grand tradition in folktales of small creatures, who turn out to be heroes. The youngest brother, the one who everyone assumes is too little to help, who saves the day through his cleverness or bravery. “Those stories have wonderful, important messages for children about their own capabilities,” says Hutchinson, who has been leading parents and children in storytelling groups for over 10 years. “And acting out the story can make it even more powerful. You be the hare and let your child be the tortoise who wins the race, or be the lion and the mouse. Games and stories that have those kinds of role reversals in them give your child an opportunity to be big in the world.” For very young children who are struggling with separation anxiety, traditional games like peek-a-boo reinforce, in a safe, playful way, a child’s growing realization that people can go away and come back. Older children may benefit from

acting out stressful situations: if they’ve had an upsetting visit to the doctor, replay it. Except this time they get to be the scary doctor with the big needle, and you’re the kid. Every time they laugh at you squealing and rolling around on the floor when they’ve poked you in the arm with their “needle” they’re releasing a little more of the fear and anxiety about that experience. Taking the next step But what if your child’s anxieties seem to be growing, or becoming unmanageable? Stories and games aren’t the answer for every child, after all. When a child’s anxieties are making family life difficult it can be time to turn to professional advice or seek out resources in your community to support you and your child. Your family doctor, a community health nurse, or if your child is very young, an infant development consultant are all sources of information and assistance. Online, check out these BCbased resources for children and families: • The Anxiety Disorders Association of BC, www.anxietybc.com • The Mood and Anxiety Disorder Clinic, BC Children’s Hospital, www.bcchildrens.ca ]

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by Dr. Lynn Simpson, obstetrician and gynecologist

prenatal “I’m pregnant. Now what?”:

regnancy is a magical process. It never ceases to amaze me. The changes that the mother and baby experience are miraculous and all of these changes, most often, work together to help the mother and baby have a safe experience. Pregnancy is 40 weeks long, give or take two weeks, and it is usually divided into thirds or trimesters. That is about 13 weeks per stage or trimester, give or take one week. For clarity, let’s say the first stage or trimester is from the last menstrual period to the 13th week, the next trimester is 14 to 27 weeks and the final trimester is 27 to 40 weeks. Each trimester has unique concerns. Each pregnancy is unique and feelings for mom can be quite different. For example, some women have no nausea and others can hardly get out of the bathroom because of severe vomiting.

1st Trimester (0 – 13 weeks) What is mom feeling? First of all, mom is reacting to the fact that she is pregnant. This is a major life-altering event. There may be great joy, but there may also be anxiety and ambivalence. All of these emotions are common. There may be no “sense” of being pregnant, other than a missed menstrual period, or there may be lots of symptoms, such as nausea/vomiting (which can be morning, afternoon,

evening or all day), tender and enlarging breasts, frequent urination, and fatigue. There may be an increase in vaginal discharge. There may be a sense of fullness in the pelvis as the pregnancy advances. By 12 weeks the uterus is just rising above the pubic bone. She may feel “short of breath”this is due to the hormones of pregnancy changing her respiratory rate. Weight gain is about two to three pounds. She will have had numerous blood tests and urine tests, and may have a dating ultrasound. What is baby doing? The baby develops quickly and precisely. He or she starts as two cells that travel down the fallopian tube, dividing all the way, and then implants in the uterus by one week after conception. Then the baby starts sending chemicals to the mother such as chorionic gonadotropin, the hormone that is measured in a pregnancy test. Development continues and by six to seven weeks the heart starts beating. By 12 weeks, the baby is six to seven cm long from head to bum and looks like a baby. He or she has fingers, toes, nails and rudimentary hair and is now showing signs of being a girl or boy. What are the unique concerns? Dating the pregnancy: It is important in early pregnancy to establish what the due date is. Ultrasound may be required

38 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

to be certain, and an early ultrasound is more accurate than a later one. Genetics: There are now screens that all women can participate in at 10 to 11 weeks. Her doctor or midwife should discuss these options early, identifying any problems that could affect the pregnancy and make plans to deal with them. Miscarriage: Miscarriage occurs in 15 to 20 per cent of pregnancies and usually occurs before 15 weeks. Symptoms of miscarriage can include vaginal bleeding and cramps.

2nd Trimester (14 - 27 weeks) What is mom feeling? The nausea/vomiting may be improving, also the frequent urination and fatigue. The breasts continue to enlarge and nipples enlarge and darken and by 16 weeks there may be discharge from the breasts. By 18 weeks, expectant mom can feel fetal movements. It may be later if there is an anterior placenta blocking the sensation. Once movement is detected, there is a stronger feeling of “being pregnant” for many women. By 20 weeks, the uterus is usually at the level of the mom’s umbilicus (belly button). The uterus enlarges by a centimeter per week after that. And by 20 weeks, most people can tell you are pregnant and your non-maternity clothes

will not fit easily. Mom’s blood volume increases dramatically in this trimester. By the end of pregnancy she will have about 50 percent more blood in her body than she started with. She may notice swelling in her feet by the end of the day, as she retains fluid. Her heart may beat more quickly. Weight gain is about 10 to 12 pounds in this trimester. What is baby doing? By 16 weeks, the baby’s sex can be identified. The baby continues to grow and develop. By 20 weeks, the baby weighs around 300 grams (0.7 pounds), by 24 weeks 600 grams (1.3 pounds) and by 27 weeks 900 to 1,000 grams (2.2 pounds). The baby can now hear, swallow, urinate, and make breathing motions. By 27 weeks, survival becomes more likely and with fewer complications. What are the unique concerns? Genetic screening: The second part of genetic screening takes place at 15 to 17 weeks. If required, genetic testing such as amniocentesis also takes place in this trimester. Detailed ultrasound is often done at 18 weeks. Pre-term birth: After 20 weeks miscarriage is no longer used as a term. From this point, a birth is called a pre-term birth. Before 27 weeks, survival is difficult. All of the organs are there, but not developed— especially the lungs.

An overview of the pregnancy stages Diabetes: Screening for diabetes of pregnancy is usually done between 24 and 28 weeks. Blood: If mom is Rh negative, then she should have a blood test for Rh antibodies at 26 to 28 weeks.

3rd Trimester (28 - 40 weeks) What is mom feeling? She feels more and more pregnant with more and more discomforts. As pregnancy advances, sleep becomes more of a problem and fatigue follows. Feet swell more, especially in the heat and by the end of the day. Hemorrhoids may become a problem, as there is so much blood now in the system and in the veins forming the hemorrhoids. Frequent urination becomes a bother as the baby’s head pushes on the

bladder. The baby’s movement can become stronger and more painful. Back aches result from the change of posture. Tightenings of the uterus become more noticeable. It is harder and harder to work in a job where she must be on her feet a lot. Constipation can be a problem as the baby pushes on the bowel. In essence, discomfort becomes great enough that many women now look forward to labour and to having the baby in their arms instead of their body. However some women have none of these symptoms and continue to love the feeling of being pregnant. When the baby’s head goes into the pelvis (usually around 38 weeks), some women feel that there is a lot more room at the top of their uterus and it is easier to take a deep breath.

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Weight gain is usually another 10 to 12 pounds, for a total weight gain around 25 to 28 pounds. What is baby doing? The baby continues to grow and develop. If it’s a first pregnancy, by the last month, the baby is usually in their position for birth and by 38 weeks has their head into the pelvis or is engaged. If it’s a second baby or more, the baby may not assume the delivery position or get the head in the pelvis until labour starts. By 34 weeks, the baby weighs around 2,000 grams and by term or 40 weeks, the average weight is around 3,500 grams. The baby continues to move in the uterus until birth and although the character of the movements

can change, the number of movements stays the same. Counting the fetal movements cont’d on page 41

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Email Subscription fee (pay the amount applicable to your province): o BC: $16.80 ($15 + 12% HST) o ON, NB, NL: $16.95 ($15 + 13% HST) o NS: $17.25 ($15 + 15% HST) o All other provinces: $15.75 ($15 + 5% HST) o US and outside Canada: $15 Make cheque payable to: GO KIDS PUBLISHING INC. Start my subscription with the following issue (check one): o Winter 2010-11 o Spring 2011 o Summer 2011 o Fall 2011 Mail your completed subscription form along with your cheque to: Go Kids Publishing, 928 West 20th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1Y5 urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 2010 | 39

Q&A cont’d from page 6 remember that airlines have strict rules about what type of car seats they will allow you to use on the plane so call ahead first to ensure you have the correct information.) • Time Zones: You can help baby to adjust to the new time zone by changing his bedtime over a few days prior to the trip. (Prior to coming home, you can

do the same thing in reverse, while at Grandma’s.) • Crib: Hopefully Grandma and Grandpa have an appropriate crib (either portable or not) for your use when you arrive. Set the crib up in a cool comfortable room, block out any excessive light coming through the window and preferably with

no computers running in the room. If baby has to share a room with you, it will be helpful to place the crib as far away as possible from your bedside to ensure he is not disturbed by any noises you make during sleep. • White noise: Taking a white noise machine with you when you travel is very helpful

in blocking out unfamiliar sounds/noise. These units run on batteries and are a godsend during travel (as well as at home)! • Blanket: You will need a light blanket to shield baby from too many lights and overstimulation from time to time. Enjoy your trip! ]

Baby Meets Trail: Family-friendly nature walks cont’d from page 19 tackle the lower, unpaved trail which runs directly along the shoreline. This rugged route is not recommended without an all-terrain stroller. Getting there: From St. John’s Street (the main drag in Port Moody), turn left onto Moody Street. Proceed over an overpass and down to the left before making another left onto Murray Street. You’ll see the entrance and parking lot on the left. Terrain: Wide, paved path from start to finish. Aside from a short section which runs directly alongside Murray

Street, the path takes you through forested parkland. Stroller recommendation: Umbrella, all-terrain or anything in between. Length: The path is 6 km (return) so it could be managed in less than two hours, but with playgrounds at both ends, you’ll likely need to plan for a bit more time. If an epic walk is not what you’re after, there are plenty of options to loop back through streets or along adjoining trails. Family-friendly features: Washrooms (with change tables), playgrounds, spray

park (summer months only), beach, benches, covered tables, picnic tables, sports fields, and interpretive signage referencing the local history and plant life. Scenic highlights: Piers for gazing out at the inlet, plenty of benches to rest on and take in the calm of the forest, and a few historic remnants of the region’s past as a mill town make for a very interesting walk. Nearby attractions: The Inlet Community Garden along Murray Street is probably not much to look at in the depths

of fall, but is certainly worth a return visit in the warmer months. The Port Moody Station Museum and Noons Creek Hatchery are two more family-friendly destinations in the neighbourhood. Good to know: The path is very popular with cyclists, joggers and inline skaters, meaning it can get a bit crowded. ]

says Yeung. “Avoid anything round, hard, slippery or sticky, but if you can squeeze it between your fingers like a broccoli tree and it condenses then you are good to go.” Yeung assures parents that the introduction of solid foods, be that BLW or purées is a personal choice. “There is still a place for purées. Purées are still good, even adults eat purées (applesauce, yogurt,

congee); these are all purées,” says Yeung. But she adds “just as you wouldn’t offer only purées as it would restrict variety, it’s probably better to not to skip whole foods if that will add variety.” Yeung promises parents, “If you follow your baby’s cues, their food intake will develop normally.” ]

Kim Connelly is an avid crafter and mother of one who can occasionally be found pushing her daughter around local trails. She also writes a blog about strollerfriendly walks called Baby Meets Trail (babymeetstrail.blogspot.com).

Baby’s first foods cont’d from page 21 and who has little to no teeth may not be able to chew the food properly and could choke. Robin Mann* is an elementary school teacher in Richmond and a new mom to an eightmonth-old son. “I knew about BLW, I had a friend tell me how much easier it was, but I still did the purée thing. I just couldn’t imagine giving my tiny little guy a chunk of food. We’re waiting until he’s about nine

months to introduce solids.” According to Health Canada “safe finger foods include bread crusts, dry toast, pieces of soft cooked vegetables and fruits, soft ripe fruit such as banana, cooked meat and poultry, and cheese cubes.” Yeung agrees that safety can be an issue for any method of feeding young children but BLW can be safe if you follow guidelines. “Safety is essential,”

40 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

6 kid-friendly cafes cont’d from page 17 soups and salads, as well as a kids’ menu for the little ones. Kick back on the outdoor patio at this Kitsilano location. And don’t worry about having to entertain the kids because both venues sport a fun little kitchen play area. Alternatively, get interactive with the children and come out on Sunday or Monday between 5 pm and 7 pm for family pizza making nights. Info: rockymountainflatbread.ca 1876 W 1st Vancouver 604-730-0321 Kokopelli A neighbourhood favourite, this quaint café is a meeting place made for parents and kids on the go. At any given time, you will see all ages arrive by scooter, bike, wagon, stroller or foot, looking for one of the many homemade goodies (like cupcakes!) that are baked on site. Smoothies

Kokopelli’s play area. Photo courtesy of Kokopelli Café.

and $2 lattes make this a community hot spot for moms, dads and kids alike. If you have time, there are lots of tables to enjoy your treats in house as well as a separate kids section stocked with toys. Or, take the night of cooking and pick up a frozen entrée for the family. Info: kokopellicafe.ca 4593 Dunbar St. Vancouver, 604-228-0818

Re-entry Espresso Step into a different galaxy at Re-Entry Espresso on Main St. This outer space themed café is a cool stop for hot beverages and light snacks. Plenty of room for strollers to pull up (to the strategically lowered tables) and be a part of the conversation. Or sit in one of the comfy booths, as they have highchairs and boosters available. Their freshly baked delights like ham and cheese, or chocolate croissants, cookies, and muffins are out of this world with prices to match (some as low as 75 cents!). And a range of coffee and tea for the picking, but the coolest part of the menu is the Space Cadet (6 and under) who can choose from a “sippy” latte (warm milk), warm Ovaltine and warm chocolate milk starting as low as $1! Don’t forget to check out the big changing station in

the women’s bathroom. Info: www.re-entry.ca Address: 4363 Main, Vancouver, 604-872-0844 Scuie Sometimes you don’t need a playground, you just want good food and a bakery that can accompany your crew. Scuie (which means good and fast) makes real Italian style pizza, sides, pastries and coffee. Located in Yaletown, near the Roundhouse Community Centre (where there are many mom-and-baby classes), Scuie allows room for strollers and stroller parking outside, as well as highchairs for bigger bambinos. On a nice day, enjoy the patio while the kids can run around in the open area adjacent the cafe. It’s also a two-minute walk to the seawall. Info: www.sciue.ca Address: 126 Davie St. Vancouver, 604-689-7263 ]

“I’m pregnant. Now what?” cont’d from page 39 can be a form of conformation of the baby’s well being. If born at 34 weeks in the right medical centre, the baby will survive as well as a term baby. What are the unique concerns? Blood: If the mother has a blood type that is Rh negative (not as common as Rh positive), she needs to receive a shot at 28 to 32 weeks of Rh immune globulin to prevent problems for the baby if he or she should be Rh positive. Preterm birth: Until 34 weeks, preterm birth is still a concern. Anemia: At 36 weeks,

hemoglobin is usually measured to make sure the mom is not anemic before labour. Streptococcus: At 35 to 37 weeks, a culture must be taken for group B streptococcus. This culture is taken from the mom’s vagina and rectum. Group B streptococcus can be harmful to the baby if not detected and treated at the time of labour. Blood pressure: Mom’s blood pressure can become a problem especially in the third trimester. She can develop a problem known as preeclampsia, which can become

serious. Visits with her doctor or midwife become more often in the last month. Position: If the baby is in a breech position or transverse position, vaginal delivery is risky and attempts can be made to turn the baby before labour or a C-section can be planned or a careful vaginal delivery can be considered for breech in motivated women. By this trimester, the mom should be educated about the processes of labour and birth. Every labour and birth is unique and being prepared for any eventuality can make the experience much less anxiety

provoking. Supports should be in place for labour and delivery and equally important for the first while at home with the baby. All of these changes happen over 40 weeks and then over a day everything changes—the baby is breathing air now and ingesting food, expectant mom is now ready to feed her baby and within six weeks, most of the changes of pregnancy in mom are reversed. Pregnancy and childbirth is, in my opinion, life’s most amazing time! ]

urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 2010 | 41

Fun, quality time, ideas for single parents cont’d from page 29 themselves. The more our children see us as people living under external constraints but doing so in a responsible fashion, the more they are likely to follow our example and be successful too. The most important thing to remember: That our children will in the long-term value quality enjoyable time with YOU much more than doing some activity with little quality time with you. Whatever you do, do it together and have fun! Here’s some options to get your brainstorming a head start:

• Educational: Visit a library or museum, join a club, surf some educational internet websites, visit ecology centres, parks, do some magic, visit the ocean or a lake, read a book, learn words in another language, find your home with Google Earth. • Physical activity: Walk, bike, play games, play catch, walk with a dog at your local animal shelter. • Spirituality: Visit a church/temple, say a bedtime/ mealtime prayer, help a charity, visit your grandma/pa, plant some seeds. • Responsibility/discipline:

Care for companion animals, start a piggy bank, clean a bedroom together, foster a family elsewhere in the world, help someone anonymously, organize something, donate something. • Social skills: Give time to the other parent, Skype with a distance relative/friend, talk about your family tree. • Creativity: Draw pictures, make shadow characters, paint, make a collage, colour, visit an art gallery. Have a make-what-you-want meal, watch movies at home, rent computer games, surf the Internet, have a slumber

party/camp-out in the living room, stay awake all night, go to a concert, go to a drive-in theatre, point somewhere on a map and go there to explore as a day trip, have a picnic, take a bus/Skytrain trip, visit a confectionery, explore a dollar store, make funny faces, explore the stars, have a water pistol battle, blow bubbles, start a street hockey game, play board games, start a collection, be a tourist in your own town. ] Blair Yochim is a parent of two grown daughters, a teacher of special needs children, and the Acting President of the Parents’ Coalition of BC (www.parentswhocare.ca)

Carve out a little ‘mommy time’ cont’d from page 31 energy levels are dropping dangerously fast? That is a sign of burn-out. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or you are working in the home, spending every minute of your time at home with your children can be exhausting, especially when the children are young and demanding. Setting boundaries begins with commitment. Your own commitment that is, towards respecting those boundaries. Make a list of priorities—things that have to be done no matter what. And don’t try to cram it all in one day, there is always another day coming. Review your list of things to do in the morning and set aside the time for yourself. And that means doing something that will make you feel fulfilled and will bring your energy levels up. Taking a shower, drinking a cup of tea, talking to a friend, or reading

a few pages from a book. Whether you dedicate five minutes of half an hour—that is for when you get really passionate about having time for yourself—to that special “mommy time,” make sure you do so. Your children, believe it or not, will learn to respect and honour that special time too. As they grow older they will understand why it is important to set boundaries and set time aside for themselves. And if you have the employ the tube occasionally, leave the guilt aside. Everyone needs a breather, moms especially. Do you really want that time? It’s a tradeoff. You get time for yourself but you also temporarily relinquish that special “Mommy can do everything” position. And that is something moms don’t always feel comfortable with, warns James. “When a mother gives someone else the reins

42 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

temporarily, she is giving away a little bit of her importance and her status, and that often gets in the way,” James says. Because, she explains, if that is the only way you define yourself as a mother and a woman, you come to love and depend on being needed. A mother who is too focused on being there for her family feels less important when she steps down from all the obligations and daily activities she is involved in with her family. If that is you, rest assured that your position will stay the same. What will change, James says, is the way your children and husband will look at you. Setting boundaries and with that special time for yourself will make them value you and their time with you even more. If you are still not sure whether you can carve out some special “mommy time”

in the middle of the day, work on putting the children to bed early enough so you will have some time by yourself in the evening. Many moms think of their evening as “mommy time” and that is how it should be, as long as you don’t cram chores into it. Spotless houses are nice but that should not be your priority during the only time you have for yourself. Do whatever you crave in order to feel recharged. You’ll find that smiling comes easier once your energy levels are balanced. As for the chores, everyone should pitch in, young or old. But that’s the topic for yet another time. It’s just as the flight attendants say before takeoff: In case of an emergency, put on your own mask before helping your children. And they are right. Say it isn’t so. ]

resource directory

• breastfeeding clinics and/or support . .............................................. 43 • child care resource & referral..................................... 43 • children’s programs................ 43 • daycare................................... 43 • dental...................................... 43 • diapers.................................... 43 • doulas..................................... 43 • education................................ 43 • fitness..................................... 43 • food - nutrition........................ 44 • health services........................ 44 • midwives................................. 44 • parent-and-tot programs......... 44 • parent-and-tot storytimes.......... 45 • photography..................... 45-46 • prenatal classes...................... 46 • public health services/ nurses..................................... 46 • realtors.................................... 46 • retailers - clothing, equipment, accessories & gifts.................. 46 • safety...................................... 47 • sleep consultants.................... 47 • support services..................... 47 • ultrasounds - 3D/4D............... 47 • vasectomy............................... 47 Breastfeeding Clinics and/or Support Abbotsford Health Unit 104–34194 Marshall Rd, Abbotsford 604-864-3400 Drop-in breastfeeding clinics & breast milk depot for breast milk bank

*Denotes advertiser

Breastfeeding Clinics and/or Support cont’d Milk Bank at BC’s Children’s Hospital 4480 Oak St, Vancouver 604-875-2282 Donate or receive breast milk Newborn Hotline 604-737-3737 Telephone info & referral service for questions about babies birth to age 2. Open 24 hours. Serves Richmond & Vancouver. North Shore Health Region 604-983-6700 Serving North & West Vancouver North Surrey Public Health Unit 220–10362 King George Hwy, Surrey 604-587-7900 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only Pacific Spirit Community Health Centre 2110 West 43rd Ave, Vancouver 604-261-6366 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only; avail Wed am Richmond Health Department 7000 Westminster Hwy, Richmond 604-233-3150 By appointment only, Weds, 1-3pm South Delta-Ladner Public Health Unit 4470 Clarence Taylor Way, Ladner 604-952-3550 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only Vancouver Breastfeeding Clinic 340–943 W Broadway, Vancouver 604-738-1912 www.breastfeedingclinic.com

BC Women’s Hospital Breastfeeding Classes 4500 Oak St, Vancouver, 604-875-2282 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only

White Rock Public Health Unit 1185 Centre St, White Rock 604-542-4000 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only

Burnaby Hospital 3935 Kincaid St, Bury; 604-434-4211 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only

Child Care Resource & Referral

Burnaby Region–Fraser Health Authority 604-918-7605 Drop-in breastfeeding services at two locations: • McGill Library, Program Room: Wed, 1–3 pm 4595 Albert St, Burnaby • Eastburn Community Centre: Thurs, 1–3 pm 7435 Edmonds, Burnaby Cloverdale Public Health Unit 17536–58th Ave, Surrey 604-575-5100 Coquitlam Preventative Health Services 200–205 Newport Dr, Port Moody 604-949-7200 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only Guildford Public Health Unit 10233–153rd St, Surrey 604-587-4750 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only (available Tues afternoons & Fri mornings) La Leche League 604-520-4623 Serving the Lower Mainland www.lalecheleaguecanada.ca Langley Public Health Unit 22033 Fraser Hwy, Langley 604-532-2300 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only

Abbotsford Child Care Resource & Referral 100 - 32475 Simon Ave, Abbtfd 604-850-7934, www.childcarechoices.ca Child Care Resource & Referral (CCRR)* Your community’s best source of child care information & resources. Supporting families and child care providers in BC. Toll-free: 1-888-338-6622 www.ccrr.bc.ca See ad on page 16 Child Care Options Resource & Referral 6878 King George Highway, Surrey 604-572-8032 childcareoptions@options.bc.ca www.childcareoptions.ca Serving Surrey, White Rock & Delta Langley Child Care Resource & Referral 20577 Fraser Hwy, Langley, 604-533-4425 North Shore Child Care Resource & Ref 201–935 Marine Dr, N Van, 604-985-7138 Richmond Child Care Resource & Referral 190–700 Minoru Blvd, Rmd 604-279-7020 Sea to Sky Child Care Resource & Referral • 38370 Buckley Ave, Squamish 604-815-4144 • Pemberton 1-877-894-6106 (Grace)

Child Care Resource & Referral cont’d

Dental

Sunshine Coast Child Care Resource & Referral • 5520 Trail Ave, Sechelt 604-885-5657 • 659 North Road, Gibsons 604-886-3103 • Pender Harbour 604-883-2827

Tot 2 Teen Dental Care* Dr. Anita B. Gartner Inc. #219-179 Davie Street Vancouver 604-569-3669 www.tot2teendental.com admin@tot2teendental.com “Your child’s care is our focus.” See ad on page 25

Vancouver Child Care Resource Centre 2772 E. Broadway, 604-709-5661 www.childcareresource.ca Westcoast Child Care Resource Centre 2772 East Broadway, Vancouver 604-709-5661, www.wstcoast.org Westcoast Family Info & Referral 2772 East Broadway, Vancouver 604-709-5699; www.wstcoast.org YMCA Child Care Resource & Referral Serving Burnaby, New Westminster, and the Tri-Cities (Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore and Belcarra) • Tri-Cities: 1130 C Austin Ave, Coquitlam 604-931-3400; triccrr@vanymca.org • Burnaby/New Westminster: 33–250 Willingdon Ave, Bby 604-294-1109; vanymca.org Children’s Programs Aquaventures Swim Centre* “A Vancouver swimstation since 1984!” Tropical warm water and excellent teachers make every lesson an aqua-adventure! 604-736-7946 www.aquaventuresswim.com See our ad on page 9 BrightStars Program* Enrich your life with the BrightStars Program and let your child blossom. Learn dance, music and movement in this highly energetic and caring program. Classes held in Kitsilano, Yaletown & Dunbar from 1 - 13 years old. Please call Miss Jordan at 604662-8554 or email info@brightstars.ca www.brightstars.ca See ad on page 21 Gymboree Play & Music* www.gymboreeclasses.com Our locations: Vanc & North Shore: 604-739-1190 Email: vancouverbc@gymboreeclasses.com Coquitlam/Tri-Cities: 604-945-4967 Email: coquitlambc@gymboreeclasses.com Award-winning play, music, arts and baby signs classes for newborns to 5-year-olds. See ad on page 21 Staccato Studios* We offer music classes for all ages! Classes include piano, voice, guitar, bass and drums. We also offer early childhood classes featuring the Music Together curriculum. For more information, visit www.staccatostudios.com See ad on page 10

Diapers Happy Nappy Cloth Diaper Service* Happy Nappy is the new way to cloth diaper your child. Happy Nappy diapers are just as convenient and absorbent as other diaperese, and best of all, Happy Nappy is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. langley@happynappy.ca happynappy.ca 604-539-8322 See ad on outside back cover Doulas Doulas of North America (DONA) 1-888-788-DONA; www.DONA.org Doula Services Association, BC 604-515-5588; www.bcdoulas.org Education Core Education & Fine Arts* Canada’s first Junior Kindergarten school. Highly recognized for its leading academic program. For more information about our schools or to find a location near you, please visit www.cefa.ca for more details. See ad on page 13 The Shorty List* Help other parents with your insider’s scoop on daycares and schools. Go to The Shorty List and write a review about your child’s Metro Vancouver daycare, preschool or elementary school. www.theshortylist.ca See ad on page 17 Fitness Equilibria Pilates* Preggo Pilates. Try Pilates at the world-class Equilibria Pilates in downtown Langley City. Pre- and post- classes. www.equilibriapilates.com 778-278-0505 See ad on page 11 Runners and Booties* Runners and Booties Fitness offers specially designed fitness classes for mom and baby since 2005. Come try our new program Salsa Babies and Salsa Tots. For information call 778-285-6265. See ad on page 20

Daycare Kuddles Daycare Programs* Full- and part-time daycare programs for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Opening September 2010. 370 Mathers Avenue, West Vancouver 604-729-6538 or info@kuddles.ca See ad on page 5 urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 2010 | 43

*Denotes advertiser

Food–Nutrition

Parent & Tot Programs cont’d

BC Women’s Hospital Nutrition counselling for pregnant women. Free service/no referral necessary. 604875-2330

CG Brown Memorial Pool 3702 Kensington Ave, Burnaby, 604-299-9374

LANGLEY cont’d

RICHMOND cont’d

Langley Civic Centre 20699–29th Ave, Langley, 604-530-1323

Hamilton Centre 5140 Smith Dr, Richmond, 604-718-8055

WC Blair Recreation Centre 2220 Fraser Hwy, Langley, 604-533-6170

Minoru Aquatic Centre 7560 Minoru Gate, Rmd, 604-718-8020

Walnut Grove Comm Ctr & Aquatic Ctr 8889 Walnut Grove Drive, 604-882-0408

Richmond Family Place 8660 Ash St, 604-278-4336

NEW WESTMINSTER

Sea Island Centre 7140 Miller, Richmond, 604-718-8000

Recipes to the Rescue* Recipes to the Rescue is a free newsletter for the everyday cook adding inspiration to the routine of daily cooking. Simple recipes full of fresh seasonal foods. To receive the free seasonal newsletter, go to www. recipestotherescue.ca. See ad on page 17

Cameron Recreation Centre 9523 Cameron St, Burnaby, 604-421-5225 Confederation Comm Centre 4585 Albert St, Burnaby, 604-294-1936 Eastburn Community Centre 7435 Edmonds St, Burnaby, 604-525-5361

Canada Games Pool & Fitness Centre 65 E 6th Ave, New West, 604-526-4281

Vitamin K Nutrition Consulting* Helping parents have fast, easy, healthy meals that both you and your kids will enjoy! Introducing solids, picky eaters, meal planning, grocery store tours & kitchen essentials. 604-506-0399 www.vitaminkconsulting.com See ad on page 26

Edmonds Community Centre 7282 Kingsway, Burnaby, 604-525-1671

Centennial Community Centre & Fitness 65 E. 6th Ave, New West, 604-777-5100

Eileen Dailly Leisure Pool & Fitness Centre 240 Willingdon Ave, Burnaby, 604-298-SWIM

Century House-Moody Park recCentre 620–8th St, New West, 604-519-1066

Health Services

CLOVERDALE

Hypnomammas* Offering Hypnomammas: complete childbirth education & hypnosis at their best! Hypnosis for fertility, pregnancy, birth and beyond. Enjoy your baby’s birth! www.hypnomammas.com 604-375-8831 See ad on page 18

CloverValley Family Resource Place 604-671-9079

Midwives Bloom Community Midwives* Complete and personalized maternity care-experience, pregnancy, birth and the newborn stage with knowledge, confidence and joy. #408 - 1033 Davie St, Vanc 604-609-3550 www.bloomcommunitymidwives.com See ad on page 13. Department of Midwives at BC Women’s & St. Paul’s Hospitals* Learn more about the supportive and comprehensive care offered by the midwives of BC Women’s and St. Paul’s Hospitals at www.midwivesinvancouver.ca. Our services are covered by your Care Card, and we are pleased to deliver in either hospital or in your own home. www.midwivesinvancouver.ca See ad on page 27.

Willingdon Heights Community Centre 1491 Carleton Ave, Burnaby, 604-299-1446

COQUITLAM Chimo Indoor Swimming Pool 620 Poirier, Coquitlam, 604-933-6027 COQUITLAM cont’d City Centre Aquatic Complex 1210 Pinetree, Coquitlam, 604-927-6999 Pinetree Community Centre 1260 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam, 604-927-6960 Poirier Community Centre 630 Poirier, Coquitlam, 604-933-6010 DELTA Ladner Leisure Centre 4600 Clarence Taylor Crescent, Delta, 604946-3310 Sungod Recreation Centre 7815–112th St, Delta, 604-952-3075 Winskill Aquatic & Fitness Centre 5575 9th Avenue, Delta, 604-952-3005 FRASER VALLEY The Family Resource Program Network of the Lower Fraser Valley offers toy libraries, drop-in programs, support, art activities.

New Westminster Family Place #101-93 Sixth St, New West, 604-520-3666 Songs, crafts, parent education classes. All programs free, Mon - Sat, 9:30 - 11:30 am; Mon & Tues 1 - 3 pm. Queensborough Community Centre 920 Ewen, New West, 604-525-7388 MAPLE RIDGE Maple Ridge Public Library 130 - 22470 Dewdney Trunk Rd 604-467-7417 NORTH VANCOUVER Delbrook recCentre 600 Queens Rd, North Vanc, 604-987-7529 Karen Magnusson recCentre 2300 Kirkstone Pl, N Vanc, 604-987-7529 Lynn Valley recCentre 3590 Mountain Hwy, N Vanc,604-987-7529 Parkgate recCentre 3625 Banff Crt, N Vanc, 604-987-7529 Ron Andrews recCentre 931 Lytton, North Vanc, 604-987-7529 Seylynn recCentre 605 Mountain Hwy, N Vanc, 604-987-7529 William Griffith recCentre 851 W Queens Rd, N Vanc, 604-987-7529 W.V. Family Place Adventure Playground Bldg, Ambleside Park, 604-925-7172 PORT COQUITLAM Hyde Creek Recreation Centre 1379 Laurier, Port Coquitlam, 604-927-7946 www.portcoquitlam.ca

The Midwifery Group* Registered midwives providing comprehensive maternity care covered by your Care Card, with delivery at BC Women’s, St Paul’s and homebirth. 3980 Main St, at King Edward, Vancouver 604-877-7766 www.midwiferygroup.ca See ad on page 27

Alexandra Family Place, 604-535-0015

Midwives Association of BC 336–5740 Cambie St, Vancouver 604-736-5976

Ladner Family Place, 604-946-0324

Parent & Tot Programs

Newton Family Place, 604-572-8032

BURNABY

South Delta Family Place, 604-946-6622

Port Moody Recreation Complex 300 Ioco Rd, P Moody, 604-469-4556 www.cityofportmoody.com

Bonsor Recreation Centre 6550 Bonsor Ave, Burnaby, 604-439-1860

Semiahmoo Family Place, 604-535-6263

RICHMOND

Whalley Family Place, 604-580-2344

Burnaby Family Place Drop-in for parents and their kids 0-6 yrs 410 Clare Ave, Burnaby, 604-299-5112

LANGLEY

Cambie Centre 4111 Jacombs, Richmond, 604-233-8399

Douglas Recreation Centre 20550 Douglas Crescent, 604-514-2865

City Centre/Lang Centre 140–8279 Saba, Richmond, 604-233-8910

Bridgeview Family Place ,604-580-2344 Delta Family Place, 604-591-9262 Guildford Family Place, 604-583-3844 Kla-how-eya Aboriginal Centre of SACS 13629 – 108th Avenue, Surrey, 604-5842008 Langley Family Place, 604-534-7921

44 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

Port Coquitlam Recreation Ctr 2150 Wilson, P Coquitlam, 604-927-7970 www.portcoquitlam.ca PORT MOODY Kyle Recreation Centre 125 Kyle St, P Moody, 604-469-4561 ww.cityofportmoody.com

South Arm Centre 8880 Williams, Richmond, 604-718-8060 Steveston Centre 4111 Moncton, Richmond, 604-718-8080 Thompson Centre 5151 Granville Ave, Rmd, 604-718-8422 West Richmond Centre 9180 No 1 Rd, Rmd, 604-718-8400 SURREY Cloverdale Recreation Centre 6220–184 St, Surrey, 604-502-6400 Fleetwood Recreation Centre 15996–84 Ave, Surrey, 604-401-5003 Guildford Recreation Centre 15105-105 Ave, Surrey, 604-502-6360 Newton Recreation Centre 7120-136B St, Surrey, 604-501-5040 South Surrey Recreation Centre 2199–148 St, Surrey, 604-502-6200 Surrey Sport & Leisure Co 16555 Fraser Hwy, Surrey, 604-501-5950 North Surrey Recreation Centre 10275–135 Street, Surrey, 604-502-6300 VANCOUVER Britannia Community Centre 1661 Napier St, Vanc, 604-718-5800 Britannia Pool 1661 Napier St, Vanc, 604-718-5800 Champlain Heights 3350 Maquinna Dr, Vanc, 604-718-6575 Coal Harbour Comm Centre 480 Broughton, Vanc, 604-718-8222 Douglas Park Comm Centre 801 W 22nd Ave, Vanc, 604-257-8130 Dunbar Community Centre 4747 Dunbar, Vancouver, 604-222-6060 Eastside Family Place 1655 William St, Vanc, 604-255-9841 False Creek Community Centre 1318 Cartwright, Vanc, 604-257-8195 Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House 2131 Renfrew St, Vanc, 604-251-1225 Every Fri, 1–3:30 pm. Cantonese Family Drop-in free for parents with kids 6 & under. Hastings Community Centre 3096 E Hastings, Vanc, 604-718-6200 Kensington Community Centre 5175 Dumfries, Vanc, 604-718-6200 Kerrisdale Community Centre 5851 W Boulevard, Vanc, 604-257-8100 Killarney Community Centre 6260 Killarney, Vanc, 604-718-8200

*Denotes advertiser

Parent & Tot Programs cont’d

Parent & Tot Storytimes (FREE)

Parent & Tot Storytimes (FREE) cont’d

VANCOUVER cont’d

Call or visit each branch for details.

RICHMOND

WEST VANCOUVER

Kitsilano Community Centre 2690 Larch St, Vancouver, 604-257-6976

ABBOTSFORD

Steveston Branch 4111 Moncton, Richmond, 604-274-2012

West Vancouver Memorial Library 1950 Marine, West Vanc, 604-925-7400

SURREY

Photography

Cloverdale Branch 5642–176A St, Surrey, 604-576-1384

Bliss Photographic Images* Natural family photography. Available in studio or on location to capture the moments and people you love. Gift certificates available. Please visit website for more information. www.blissphotographic.ca See ad on page 13

Kitsilano Neighbourhood House Drop-in for paprents and their children 0-6 yrs. M-F, 9:30 - 11:30 am. 2325 W 7th Ave ,Vanc, 604-736-3588 Kitsilano Neighbourhood House @ Acadia Pk Multicultural drop-in for parents and their children 0-4 yrs. M, W, F, 10 - 11:30 am. Acadia Park & Apartments, 2707 Tennis Crescent, UBC Campus, Vanc 604-736-3588 Marpole Family Place 1305 W 70th Ave, Vanc, 604-263-1405 Marpole–Oakridge Community Centre 990 W 59th Ave, Vanc, 604-257-8180 Mount Pleasant Community Centre 3160 Ontario St, Vanc, 604-713-1888 Mount Pleasant Family Centre 2910 St George St, Vanc, 604-872-5213

Clearbrook Library 32320 George Ferguson Way 604-859-7814, ext 229 MSA Centennial Library 33660 South Fraser Way 604-853-1753 Mount Lehman Library 5875 Mount Lehman Road 604-856-4988 BURNABY Bob Prittle Metrotown Branch 6100 Willingdon Ave, Burnaby, 604-436-5420 Cameron Branch 9523 Cameron, Burnaby, 604-421-5454 McGill Branch 4595 Albert, Burnaby, 604-299-8955 COQUITLAM

Movies for Mommies* Wednesdays, 12:30 pm The Rio Theatre, 1660 East Broadway (at the Commercial Skytrain station), Vancouver www.moviesformommies.com See ad on page 31

Poirier St Branch 575 Poirier, Coquitlam, 604-937-4144

Renfrew Park Community Centre 2929 E 22nd Ave, Vanc, 604-257-8388

DELTA

Riley Park Community Centre 50 E 30th Ave, Vancouver, 604-257-8545 Roundhouse Community Centre 181 Roundhouse Mews, Vanc, 604-713-1800 South Vancouver Family Place 7710 Nanaimo St, Vanc, 604-325-5213 Strathcona Community Centre 601 Keefer St, Vancouver, 604-713-1838

City Centre Branch 3001 Burlington Dr, Coquitlam, 604-927-3561 George Mackie Library 8440 112 St, Delta, 604-594-8155 Ladner Pioneer Library 4683 - 51 Street 604-946-6215 Tsawwassen Library 1321A - 56 Street 604-943-2271 MISSION

Sunset Pool 404 E 51st Ave, Vanc, 604-718-6505

Mission Library 33247 Second Avenue, 604-826-6610

Trout Lake Community Centre 3350 Victoria Dr, Vanc, 604-257-6955

NEW WESTMINSTER

Vancouver Aquatic Centre 1050 Beach Ave, Vanc, 604-665-3424 West End Community Centre 870 Denman St, Vanc, 604-257-8333 West Point Grey Community Centre 4397 W 2nd Ave, Vancouver, 604-257-8140

New Westminster Public Library 716–6th Ave, New West, 604-527-4660 NORTH VANCOUVER Lynn Valley Main Library 1280 E 27th St, N Vanc, 604-984-0286 Capilano Branch 3045 Highland Blvd, N Vanc, 604-987-4471

Fleetwood Branch 15996–84 Ave, Surrey, 604-572-5922 Guildford Branch 15105–105 Ave, Surrey, 604-588-5015 Newton Branch 13795–70 Ave, Surrey, 604-596-7401 Ocean Park Branch 12854–17 Ave, Surrey, 604-502-6304 Port Kells Branch 18885–88 Ave, Surrey, 604-882-0733 Strawberry Hill Branch 7399–122 St, Surrey, 604-501-5836 Whalley Branch 10347–135 St, Surrey, 604-588-5951 VANCOUVER Britannia VPL Branch 1661 Napier, Vancouver, 604-665-2222 Central Library VPL 350 W Georgia St, Vanc, 604-331-3663 Champlain Heights VPL 7110 Kerr St, Vancouver, 604-665-3955 Collingwood VPL Branch 2985 Kingsway, Vanc, 604-665-3953 Dunbar VPL Branch 4515 Dunbar, Vanc, 604-665-3968 Firehall Library 1455 W 10th Ave, Vanc, 604-665-3970 Fraserview VPL 1950 Argyle Dr, Vanc, 604-665-3957 Hastings VPL 2674 E Hastings, Vanc, 604-665-3959 Joe Fortes VPL 870 Denman, Vanc, 604-665-3972 Kerridale VPL 2112 W 42nd Ave, Vanc, 604-665-3974 Kensington VPL 1428 Cedar Cottage Mews, Vancouver, 604-665-3961 Kitsilano VPL 2425 MacDonald, Vanc, 604-665-3976

West Side Family Place 2819 W 11th Ave, 604-738-2819

Parkgate Branch 3675 Banff Crt, N Vanc, 604-929-3727

WEST VANCOUVER

PORT COQUITLAM

West Vancouver Community Centre 780–22nd, West Vancouver, 604-925-7270

Terry Fox Library 2470 Mary Hill Rd, Port Coq, 604-927-7999 RICHMOND

West Vancouver Family Place Drop-in for parents/caregivers & preschool children (infant to 6 yrs), 604-925-7172

Oakridge VPL 101–650 W 41st Ave, Vanc, 604-665-3980

Brighouse–Main Branch 100–7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond, 604-231-6401

Renfrew VPL 2969 E 22nd Ave, Vanc, 604-257-8705

Gleneagles Community Centre 5575 Marine, West Vancouver, 604-921-2100

Cambie Branch Cambie Shopping Plaza (SW corner) 150–11590 Cambie Road, Richmond 604-273-ABCD (2223) Ironwood Branch 8200–11688 Steveston Hwy, Richmond 604-231-6468

Marpole VPL 8386 Granville St, Vanc, 604-665-3978 Mount Pleasant VPL 370 E Broadway, Vanc, 604-665-3962

Riley Park VPL 3981 Main St, Vancouver, 604-665-3964 South Hill VPL 6076 Fraser, Vancouver, 604-665-3965 Strathcona Community Library 592 Pender St, Vancouver, 604-665-3967

Bopomo Pictures* Bopomo offers a modern and fresh approach to studio photography combining convenience, fun and affordability with high-quality photography. Session fees only $29.95! Two locations: • 2631 W Broadway, Vanc; 604-678-1411 • 110-15745 Croydon Dr (The Shops at Morgan Crossing), Surrey, 778-294-0711 www.bopomo.ca See ad on page 6 Jane Photo* The hottest photo studio in Vancouver! When parents want maternity and newborn art, they turn to Jane Photo. Find out why everyone is talking. In-studio, on-location, or at your home. Fresh, fun, fabulous. www.janephoto.ca See ad on page 15 Kia Porter Photography* Capturing fun, capturing chaos...capturing life! Candid portraiture in colour or black & white. On location or in the comfort of your own home. Digital negatives always included! www.kiaporter.com 604-787-4236 See ad on page 16 Nomayne McIntosh Photography* Nomayne wants to capture your life’s story: the smiles and tears, the quiet and chaos. Check out her journalistic style online. www.nomayne.com 604-868-8687 See ad on page 11 Raw Photographic Arts* “Capturing life’s raw moments.” Raw Photographic Arts provides an intimate, comfortable & welcoming studio environment for their clients who need some extra care and pampering. rawphotographicarts.com 604-834-8824 See ad on page 9 Studio 2 Photography* 04-The North Shore’s fun and modern studio. We specialize in creating beautifully designed digital albums. Experienced, instudio/on-location. Baby plan, families, pets & children. Let’s have fun! Tamara, 604-990-4301 www.studio2.ca North Vancouver See ad on page 21 Studio 32* www.studio32photography.com See ad on page 20

West Point Grey VPL 4480 W 10th Ave, Vanc, 604-665-3982 urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 2010 | 45

*Denotes advertiser

Photography cont’d

Public Health Services/Nurses cont’d

Twist Photography* Photography with a modern twist! I love to capture all the milestones of family life. Specializing in maternity, newborn, child and family photography. www.twistphotography.ca info@twistphotography.ca 604-790-8416 See ad on page 27

North Delta Public Health Unit 11245–84 Ave, Delta, 604-507-5400

Veridamo Photography* We are looking for children to participate in the 2nd annual “Kids of Vancouver” coffee table book. Proceeds go directly to local food bank children’s programs. www.kidsofvancouver.com www.veridamo.com 604-910-7020 See ad on page 17

North Surrey Public Health Unit 220–10362 King George Hwy, Sry 604-587-7900 Port Coq Preventive Health Services 2266 Wilson, Pt Moody, 604-777-8700 Port Moody Preventive Health Services 200-205 Newport, Pt Moody, 604-949-7200 North Shore Community Health Services Central Community Health Centre 5th floor, 132 W Esplanade, North Vancouver, 604-983-6700 Parkgate Community Health Centre 2 Fl, 3625 Banff Crt, N Vanc,604-904-6450

Prenatal Classes

West Comm Health Centre 990–22nd St, West Vanc; 604-904-6200

BC Women’s Hospital 604-875-2169

Richmond Health Department 7000 Westminster Hwy, Rmd,604-233-3150

Belly to Baby Prenatal Education* Sarah Alexander, RN; 604-469-2698 www.bellytobaby.ca; bellytobaby@shaw.ca A comprehensive course that empowers and equips women and their birth partners with knowledge and confidence for their birth. Weekend and private courses avail. Canada’s 1st retailer for the Dunstan Baby Language. Obstetrical TENS machine rentals (decrease labour pain without medication). See ad on page 26

S. Delta-Ladner Publ Health Unit 4470 Clarence Taylor Cr, Ladner 604-952-3550

Douglas College 604-527-5476 Serving Rmd, N Delta, Sry, & Langley Little Buds Prenatals* Our team of RNs provide private and group classes designed to empower you and your partner to have an informed choice in your birth and postpartum period. Obstetric TENS machine rentals. 604-767-7121 www.littlebudsprenatals.com See ad on page 31 Lower Mainland Childbearing Society 604-878-1031/registrar@childbearing.org North Vancouver Health Department 604-983-6863 St. Paul’s Hospital 604-806-8298 Public Health Services/Nurses Burnaby Preventive Health Services 300–4946 Canada Way, Burnaby 604-918-7605 Cloverdale Public Health Unit 17536–58th Ave, Sry, 604-575-5100 Coquitlam Preventive Health Srv 200–205 Newport, Pt Mdy, 604-949-7200 Guildford Public Health Unit 100–10233-153 St, Sry, 604-587-4750 Langley Public Health Unit 20389 Fraser Hwy, Lang, 604-539-2900 Maple Ridge Preventive Health Services 400-22470 Dewdney Trunk, Maple Ridge 604-476-7000 New Westminster Preventive Health Services 537 Carnarvon, New West, 604-777-6740 Newton Public Health Unit 200–7337–137 St, Sry, 604-592-2000

Vancouver Community Health Services Evergreen Community Health Centre 3425 Crowley Dr, Vanc; 604-872-2511 North Community Health Office 200–1651 Commercial Dr, Vanc; 604-253-3575 Pac Spirit Community Health Centre 2110 W 43rd Ave, Vanc; 604-261-6366 Raven Song Community Health Centre 2450 Ontario St, Vanc, 604-709-6400 South Community Health Office 6405 Knight St, Vanc; 604-321-6151 Three Bridges Community Health Centre 1292 Hornby St, Vanc; 604-736-9844 White Rock Public Health Unit 1185 Centre St, Wh Rock, 604-542-4000 Realtors Barry Berg, RE/MAX Real Estate Services* Need space for your growing family? Contact Barry for a free home evaluation or to get a free market snapshot. www.barryberg.ca barry@barryberg.ca or 604-263-2823 See ad on page 30 Retailers–Clothing, Equipment, Accessories & Gifts (maternity & baby) Active Baby* With the largest selection of active, outdoor and green products for newborn to 4, ACTIVE BABY is a destination of active families at its Capilano Mall location on the North Shore, and online at: www.activebaby.ca 604-986-8977 info@activebaby.ca See ad on page 8 Along Comes A Baby* Along Comes A Baby is 6000 sq ft of moms’ paradise. We have what moms want! Bum Genius, Phil & Ted’s, Graco, Peg Perego, Ergo, Peanut Shell, Medela, Avent & more. Take exit 258 go east 1-1/2 blocks on L behind I-Hop. 436 W. Bakerview St., 104, Bellingham, WA www.alongcomesababy.com 360-671-5523 See ad on page 18

46 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 2010

Retailers–Clothing, Equipment, Accessories & Gifts (maternity & baby) cont’d

Baby On Board* Baby On Board sells strollers by Peg Perego, BOB, Maclaren, Mountain Buggy, Bugaboo, Baby Jogger, Valco Baby and Britax. We carry a carefully selected assortment of the finest baby products plus a complete assortment of care products. Two locations: • Richmond Ctr Mall (Rmd), 604-273-0884 • Sunwood Square Mall (Coq),778-285-8282 www.babyonboard.ca See ad on page 4

Lussobaby* Where discerning parents discover modern nursery furniture, stylish clothing for little ones, locally-made organic gifts. Plus essentials for meal time, bath time and play time. 1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver 778-340-0648 www.lussobaby.ca See ad on page 3

Bike Zone, The* We are a full sales and service bike shop. We carry a wide selection of quality bicycles, parts, clothing and accessories for all ages, riding levels and styles. 102-15420 Fraser Highway, Surrey 604-538-0969 www.thebikezone.ca See ad on page 10 Boomers and Echoes Kids & Maternity* The North Shore’s largest selection of new and quality consigned, newborn to size 8 and maternity and nursing wear. Furniture, carseats and strollers. Custom nursery bra fittings. Carseat technicians on staff. Organic mattresses in! Great selection of Melissa & Doug toys. Serving families for over 25 years. 1985 Lonsdale, North Vancouver 604-984-6163 www.boomersandechoes.com See ad on page 10 EIO! - A Kid’s Store* 3404 Cambie Street, Vanc, 604-873-4543 See ad on page 15 Jack & Lola* Top brands, inspired products, locally made goods and an extensive selection of items from companies who are doing their part to protect babies’ futures. A natural modern baby destination. 135 West 1st St, North Vancouver 778-340-5225 www.jackandlola.ca See ad on page 29 Kids Market* Endlessly fun and fascinating stores! 28 unique shops and services for kids and kidsat-heart. Fashion, toys, games, costumes and more. Kids’ hair salon, play area and arcade. Open daily, 10 am - 6 pm. 1496 Cartwright St, Granville Island 604-689-8447 www.kidsmarket.ca See ad on page 12 Lovey’s Body Products Inc.* At Lovey’s Body Products Inc., we want to rid the world of nasty chemicals, so we produced Lovey’s Tushi Wash, the natural alternative to baby wipes. No parabens, sulfates, zinc or petroleum—only naturally sourced ingredients. Loveys.ca or 604-762-7425 See ad on page 26

Odette Alfaro Handcrafted Jewelry* Unique hand-stamped jewelry tags. Personalized pendants, rings and bracelets. Celebrate your love with one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry. For pricing and designs, visit www.odettealfaro.com See ad on page 28 Pacific Basket Company* Creative gift giving at its finest. 201 - 15 Braid St, New Westminster, BC 604-522-0246 Toll-free: 866-425-2139 www.pacificbasketco.com order@pacficbasketco.com See ad on page 5 Pebble* The lifestyle store for kids 0-6 years. At Pebble, you’ll find a unique selection of toys, clothing, bedding, bath & feeding products. Visit us at: 2675 Arbutus St (at W 11th), Vancouver, or shop online at www.pebblebaby.com 604-568-6923 See ad on page 23 Room for Two* Room for Two is your best pre and post birth resource centre. Along with maternity and nursing wear, breastfeeding items such as bras and pumps are our specialty. Owner, Lorena, is a 20-year experienced doula and childbirth educator. 1409 Commercial Dr, Vancouver 604-255-0508 See ad on page 15 Three Bags Full* Children’s merino clothing made from 100% New Zealand merino wool. Made ethically in New Zealand with love and care. For ages newborn to 8 years. Gorgeous and practical! www.threebagsfull.co.nz See ad on page 4 Wee Ones Reruns* With floor space of 2000 sq ft, Wee Ones Reruns is one of Vancouver’s leading consignment stores. We are located at 612 Kingsway. Store hours are 10 am–5 pm Tues to Thurs. Closed Sun & Mon. 612 Kingsway, Vancouver 604-708-0956 www.weeonesvancouver.com See ad on page 16 Wee Piggies & Paws* Wee Piggies & Paws...because they grow up so fast! Beautiful shadow boxes, lifecast statues & keepsake ornaments of your child’s hands & feet. Custom-framed. Must be seen to be believed! Visit www. weepiggies.com today! See ad on page 23

*Denotes advertiser

Safety

Support Services cont’d

Babysafe Childproofing* Helping families across the Lower Mainland create safe and secure environments fo their little ones to grow and thrive in. Babysafe offers home safety consultations, products and installation. www.babysafechildproofing.ca 604-866-8939 See ad on page 18

Multiple Births Canada www.multiplebirthscanada.org

Sleep Consultants Hushababy Consulting* Teach your baby/child to sleep through the night and take great naps! Professional and dedicated to providing the best, prompt service to your family. Baby sleeping manuals also available for your convenience. www.hushababy.com See ad on page 11 Sleep Sense, Crystal DiNicolo, professional child sleep consultant* Customized plans to teach your child to sleep through the night and take superb naps! Very supportive, dedicated and compassionate service www.sleepsense.net/vancouver 604-469-7077 See ad on page 9 Support Services BC Women’s Hospital Nutrition counselling for pregnant women. Free service/no referral necessary 604-875-2330 Best Babies of the Langleys Supporting at-risk pregnant & postnatal women. 100–20689 Fraser Hwy, Langley 604-530-2772 Best Start Parenting Centre Parenting groups, seminars, tel counselling. 604-925-0831 (fees & registration) Cherish Childbirth Care (formerly Vancouver Childbirth Services) Prenatal classes, birth and postpartum doula services. www.CherishChildbirth.com 604-626-1079 Coquitlam Pregnancy Concern Ctr 2512 Arundel Lane, Coq 604-939-2633 Health Link BC 811 or www.healthlinkbc.ca Healthiest Babies Possible Free outreach programs for pregnant moms. Bby/New West: 604-659-2225 Abbotsford/Langley: 604-859-7681 Coq/Mp Rdg/Pt Coq/Pt Mdy: 604-777-8718 Sry/Delta/White Rock: 604-583-1017 Vancouver: 604-877-4672 Kla-how-eya Aboriginal Centre of SACS 13629 - 108th Avenue, Sry 604-584-2008 Maple Ridge Family Education & Support Ctr 604-467-6055 Monarch House Autism Centre* Offering an interdisciplinary approach to treating individuals with ASD. 3185 Willingdon Green Burnaby, BC V5G 4P3 604-205-9204 www.monarchhouse.ca See ad on page 5

New Westminster Family Place 101 - 93 Sixth St, New West, 604-520-3666 Newborn Hotline Open 24 hours. Serving Rmd & Vanc only. 604-737-3737 Pacific Post Partum Support Society 104–1416 Commercial Dr, Vanc 604-255-7999 Parent Support Services Parent Support Circles Prog throughout BC. FREE service. 604-669-1616; 1-800-665-6880 www.parentssupportbc.ca South Community Birth Program 6405 Knight St, Vancouver; 604-321-6151 Surrey-Delta Parents of Multiples 604-626-4550, twinmom@shaw.ca Vietnamese Baby Clinic Evergreen Community Health Centre 2:30-5:30 pm, Mons, by appt 3425 Crowley Dr, Vanc, 604-872-2511 Woman Care, BC Family Care 31-22374 Lougheed Hwy, Maple Ridge 604-463-5513 YWCA Single Mothers’ Support Services 604-895-5789; www.ywsinglemoms.org Ultrasounds–3D & 4D 3D Miracles* 3D ultrasound and 3D/4D prenatal ultrasound. Specials available for bookings before Nov. 30. Ask about our special packages starting from $99 for a limited time only. Visit our new location: 33771 Goslings Way (Cyprus off Montrose), Abbotsford 604-512-4350 www.3dmiracles.com. See ad on page 7 My 3D Ultrasound* (in association with Greig Associates) The ultrasound specialists at Greig Associates are proud to offer their expertise and care to the exciting field of 3D/4D ultrasound. Giving the opportunity to see your unborn baby the very first time. Visit www.my3dultrasound.com 604-267-3DUS (3387). See ad on page 14 Som Visao Spa* Som Visao Spa is Vancouver’s premier destination for 3D/4D ultrasound and postpartum body restoration, offering a wide range of prenatal and postpartum treatments to balance your body and mind. 8 - 3195 Granville St, Vancouver 604-732-9901 www.mynewspa.ca See ad on page 27 Vasectomy Pollock Clinics* No-Scalpel/No-Needle Vasectomy. A simple and virtually painless, bloodless 7 minute procedure done through a tiny 2mm opening requiring no stitches to close, with a better than 99.9% success rate. The procedure is performed by Dr. Neil Pollock, M.D., a wellknown expert on men’s contraceptive health. 604-717-6200 www.pollockclinics.com or call See ad on page 12. ]

read us ONLINE Did you know you can now read the entire current issue of urbanbaby & toddler magazine online as a flipbook? It’s true! So when you can’t remember where you put your hard copy or you want to show a friend a particular article or ad you saw, you can just visit our website and click on the current cover. And if you want to find out more about the businesses behind the ads, click on the URL and you’ll be taken directly to that business’ site. Cool, huh? We think so.

www.urbanbaby.ca urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 2010 | 47

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