Acelleron Medical Products

Category: Toddlers

  • Top 10 Podcasts for Parents

    Top 10 Podcasts for Parents

    Between cluster feeds, diaper changes, and sleepless nights, sometimes all a new parent wants to do is take a minibreak. Sometimes even a seasoned parent needs a little pick-me-up. Thankfully, even if you are glued to the couch and bleary-eyed from the craze of having a new baby, or a pro at this whole parenting thing, there are plenty of podcasts to offer a little mental boost. Check out these top 10 podcasts to keep you entertained and informed.

    That New Mom Life Podcast

    That New Mom Life

    A short but focused venture featuring 12 episodes, That New Mom Life from Parents.com focuses specifically on the first few months after having baby. Body changes, sleep deprivation, breastfeeding, intimacy, and easing back into work are some of the topics they touch on. It’s a very targeted window, and just what a new mom after baby could use.

    Miraculous Mama podcast

    Miraculous Mamas

    Taking an in depth look at motherhood, pregnancy, childbirth, and a variety of other topics that impact women’s lives, Miraculous Mamas takes a straightforward approach. Getting real about fertility, birthing, milk supply, infant sleep, menstrual cycles, and so much more, these are unfiltered discussions from a familiar landscape.

    The Mom Hour podcast

    The Mom Hour

    Designed by moms, for moms, The Mom Hour has real conversations about experiences the hosts, and many moms, have had. Not only does this podcast provide tips for pregnancy, new moms, toddlers, little kids, and older kids, it also dives into encouragement and support with discussions about body positivity, healthy habits, and work/life balance. The cohosts help moms feel better about where they are and the job they are doing.

    First Class Fatherhood podcast

    First Class Fatherhood

    Talking about fatherhood, from the perspective of fathers, First Class Fatherhood is looking to change the narrative on fatherhood and family life. Host Alec Lace interviews “high profile” dads, from sports legends to TV personalities. They break down how fatherhood has transformed them, along with the bright spots, the crazy times, and the moments that melt your heart. It provides unique and unexpectedly open discussions on what fathers’ experience through all stages of a child’s life.

    The Longest Shortest Time podcast

    The Longest Shortest Time

    For something more adult oriented, The Longest Shortest Time has unfiltered stories from a variety of parents discussing all kinds of situations. It is often not for kids’ ears. That’s part of what makes it appealing though. It’s real. It’s raw. It talks about so many of the topics that parents face but may not broach in conversation. Sperm shopping, getting pregnant, babies, couples, sex, sleep, kids, and loss, this podcast has a wide range of real life talk to make you laugh, cry, and escape for a few minutes.

    Mom and Dad are Fighting podcast

    Mom and Dad are Fighting

    Looking for a little comedic relief? Mom and Dad are Fighting can give you a few laughs that you otherwise wouldn’t have had. This podcast runs the gamut from toddler to teen, and all things in between. Potty training, screen time, medical fears, play dates, picking your battles, and how to enjoy long car rides with the whole family, there is enough to keep you occupied for hours. All with a little bit of humor to help get you through these milestones and situations. As you understand from their disclaimer, this podcast also isn’t the best for little ears. So, keep this to headphones or when baby is napping.

    One Bad Mother podcast

    One Bad Mother

    Another one that isn’t exactly meant for little ears, One Bad Mother IS specifically for moms. From relatable mortifying moments, to shattering gender roles, to a whole slew of parenting topics, it’s a refreshing take on what the stereotypical “mom” should or shouldn’t be and some of the challenges parents face with a whole lot of humor mixed in.

    Best of Both Worlds podcast

    Best of Both Worlds

    Balancing parenthood and a career can be challenging. Best of Both Worlds takes this topic head on. Cohosts Laura Vanderkam and Sarah Hart-Unger are devoted to both their families and their careers. They share tips on how to successfully navigate both. With interviews from well-known guests such as Heidi Murkoff, the author of “What to Expect When You Are Expecting,” and answers to listener questions, this podcast can offer a little support to those looking to navigate the workplace and caring for a family.

    PediaCast podcast

    PediaCast

    If you are interested in something with a medical approach, PediaCast is a good option. Pulling from his own experience as a pediatrician, interviewing pediatric and parenting experts, as well as fielding questions from parents themselves, Dr. Mike discusses just about every medical topic or situation you can think of. Have another question? Try submitting it to have your specific topic discussed.

    NPR Life Kit Parenting podcast

    Life Kit: Parenting

    For some more practical, science-based insight, NPR’s Life Kit: Parenting Edition has you covered. This podcast has discussions ranging from pregnancy through the teenage years. With lighthearted topics ranging from picking out a baby name and reading to your children aloud, to more pointed conversations about mental health and social issues, Life Kit provides thought provoking and insightful talks for all stages of your child’s life.

  • Food Allergy Basics: A Mom’s Story

    Food Allergy Basics: A Mom’s Story

    When you think of food allergies, I bet one of the first things that comes to mind is “PEANUTS!” Up until I had children of my own, that is exactly what I thought of whenever I heard about food allergies or EpiPens.

    I gave birth to my first child, a son, in July of 2015. My husband and I were so excited to finally have a child of our own, and I was very passionate about breastfeeding. Our baby arrived three weeks early and from the get-go he was full of surprises.

    I had a difficult time breastfeeding (thank goodness for my breast pump), and my son had a hard time gaining weight due to the astronomical amount of times he spit up. His pediatrician told us he may have a dairy intolerance and asked us to bring a stool sample to be tested. The results came back negative, and he was diagnosed with acid reflux at his one month well visit.

    I continued to breastfeed, and I also decided to eliminate dairy from my own diet to see if that helped at all. And it did! He was thriving and nursing so much better within a few weeks. Plus, I was able to quickly get rid of the baby weight I had gained. Seemed like a win/win situation.

    Fast forward to when he was 7 months old, my niece, who was 13 months at the time, wanted to share her yogurt with her cousin. He barely tasted it, and I received a frantic call from my sister saying that he was very swollen all over and had red hives. I ran out of work and called his pediatrician immediately. Thankfully, the swelling went down, and he was back to being a happy baby after some Benadryl.

    The next day we were seen by his pediatrician. She ordered blood work and tested him for dairy allergies. We received a call later that night stating what we had suspected – he had a severe food allergy to dairy and all dairy products. Suddenly, it all made sense… what appeared to be reflux was actually a dairy food allergy. He would spit up so much in the first few weeks of life because his little body was rejecting my breastmilk that had dairy traces in it.

    So of course, as any parent would, I started doing some research. We brought him to an allergist, and they confirmed many food allergies by a skin test: dairy, any dairy products, peanuts, all tree nuts, sesame, and sunflower. Already feeling defeated from the dairy diagnosis, I felt even worse because we had used almond milk instead of cow’s milk to wean him off breastmilk at 13 months.

    This is when the real challenge began. I had to read and re-read all food labels and educate myself on what the key words were to avoid. Suddenly, anything that was easy to cook or a quick snack I could grab for him were out of the question. No yogurt, no cheese, nothing with butter, no peanut butter sandwiches, which translated to no granola bars and pretty much any food that was prepared by anyone else but me. Going out to eat was impossible and terrifying!

    Having learned so much in my journey, I would like to share some facts1 about food allergies:

    • What exactly is a food allergy? A food allergy is when your body’s immune system reacts to a food protein because it has mistaken that food protein as a threat. Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening.
    • You can have an allergy to literally ANY type of food, but there are 8 top food allergens:

    1). Milk (cow’s milk)
    2). Egg
    3). Peanut
    4). Soy
    5). Wheat
    6). Tree nut
    7). Shellfish
    8). Fish
    9). Sesame (quickly becoming the unofficial 9th allergy)

    • There are 32 million Americans with food allergies, 6 million of those people are children.
    • Some children may outgrow allergies such as milk, egg, wheat, and soy, but peanut, tree nut, fish, and shellfish are usually lifelong.
    • There are two types of allergy testing: skin test and blood work.

    One aspect I am thrilled about is that allergy friendly foods are a lot more accessible now, even from just 5 years ago. By the time I had my daughter in 2017, it was much easier to manage her allergies due to all the options that became mainstream after she was born.

    Here are some of my go-to brands for top 8 allergens:

    Whether your child has allergies or not, I hope my experience can help you understand the challenges, as well as some tips to overcome those challenges. No matter what, moms will do just about anything for their children’s safety and well-being, even if it means pushing yourself to your culinary limits!

    1 Source: www.foodallergy.org

     

    Written by Connie Gregorio, human resources specialist at Acelleron and mom of 2 food allergy kids.

  • Top Learning Toys for Young Babies & Toddlers

    Top Learning Toys for Young Babies & Toddlers

    Whether your baby is on the way, just arrived, or already settling in as the newest member of the family, chances are your toy collection is growing. In addition to safety, it’s important to also consider the developmental appropriateness of the toys you introduce to your child. According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children, while each child will develop at his or her individual pace, there are general guidelines to follow when selecting age-appropriate toys for infants and toddlers. Here, we’re offering tips for choosing toys at each stage as well as highlighting some of our favorite learning toys for young babies and toddlers.

    Stage 1: Young Infants (birth through 6 months)

    At this age, babies are interested in looking at people—especially faces—and bright colors. They are also beginning to discover their hands and feet, lift their heads, turn their heads toward sounds, put things in their mouths (careful!), and more. With all this in mind, choose toys that encourage your baby to use his or her hands, ears, and eyes.

    Our favorite learning toys for young infants:

    • A rattle is a simple yet ideal toy for young infants, as it helps to develop a baby’s grasp reflex and fine motor skills.
    • It’s never too early to start reading to your child, and a book of lullabies is a sweet way to establish a bedtime routine. And we promise: your baby will love your singing voice, regardless of musical ability.
    • A dual-facing mirror is a must-have for car travel, as you can keep an eye on baby while he or she stays entertained.

    Stage 2: Older Infants (7 to 12 months)

    As babies begin to explore their surroundings, they are also building their language skills (i.e. learning to understand their own names and other common words), and can start to identify body parts, find hidden objects, and place things in and out of containers.

    Our favorite learning toys for older infants:

    • Stimulate your child’s imagination by playing pretend with a puppet or doll.
    • An etched wooden block set that features all the letters of the alphabet, numbers, and animals is a classic toy with endless, creative possibilities.
    • Develop hand-eye coordination while also encouraging tactile exploration with this rainbow sensory ball that’s made of 100% natural rubber.

    Stage 3: Young Toddlers (1-year-olds)

    Curiosity is the name of the game for one-year-olds, and at this stage, your child is likely always on the go. Toys that encourage movement and creativity are essential—just be sure to have the necessary safety precautions in place.

    Our favorite learning toys for young toddlers:

    • For new walkers, a push and pull toy helps build strength and confidence.
    • Young toddlers are beginning to enjoy listening to stories and say their first words, and a board book with simple illustrations or photographs will promote the development of your baby’s vocabulary and love of reading.
    • Unleash your child’s inner artist with non-toxic, washable finger paint.

    Stage 4: Older Toddlers (2-year-olds)

    By two, your child has likely gained good control of his or her hands and fingers and likes to play with small objects. At this age, look for toys that require problem-solving skills, allow for creative uses, and will further develop your toddler’s large and small muscle groups.

    Our favorite learning toys for older toddlers:

    • A wooden puzzle is an educational and fun way to learn about different shapes.
    • No matter the season, a sand table is perfect for creative play, plus it can be filled with all sorts of sensory items including rice and water for even more tactile exploration.
    • Children at this age love to pretend, and a play kitchen set will make your little one feel like a Master Chef.

    When it comes to choosing learning toys for young babies and toddlers, simplicity is key. Toys that can be played with in a variety of ways will help to encourage your child’s imagination, and allow him or her to make discoveries and create. And by paying attention to your baby’s development process, you can rest assured that you’re introducing age-appropriate toys at every stage.

     

    This post contains affiliate link(s). If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but we will get a small commission. These affiliate links help our business continue to provide the best services possible. Thanks!

  • The Best Summer Movies for Kids & Adults

    The Best Summer Movies for Kids & Adults

    Looking to escape the heat this summer? When it’s just too warm to play outside, watching a movie at home or at the theater can be a cool break. Here, we’re rounding up our favorite summer movies—from classics to new releases—that will keep the whole family entertained.

    Summer Movie Classics for Kids

    The Sandlot (1993)

    Nothing says summer like baseball. Set in the summer of 1962, The Sandlot is a hilarious and heartwarming coming-of-age story that kids and parents alike can enjoy.

    Available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime, YouTube, Vudu, iTunes, and Google Play.

     

    Finding Nemo (2003)

    It’s hard to believe we were first introduced to our favorite underwater friends over fifteen years ago, and something tells us the next generation of kids will love Nemo and Dory for many more to come.

    Available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime, YouTube, Vudu, iTunes, and Google Play.

     

    New Summer Flicks for Kids

    The Lion King – in theaters on July 19th

    The highly anticipated adaptation features an epic cast and outstanding soundtrack. Beyoncé is the voice of Nala; need we say more?

     

    Dora and the Lost City of Gold – in theaters on August 2nd

    Dora is off on her next adventure! Not your average high schoolers, Dora and her friends must solve the mystery behind a lost city of gold while trying to save her parents in this live-action film.

     

    Summer Movie Classics for Adults

    Dirty Dancing (1987)

    “Nobody puts Baby”—or this movie—“in a corner.” Starring Jennifer Grey as Frances “Baby” Houseman and Patrick Swayze as dance instructor Johnny Castle, Dirty Dancing is the summer fling tale for the ages.

    Available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime, YouTube, Vudu, iTunes, and Google Play.

     

    The Notebook (2004)

    Based on the best-selling novel by Nicholas Sparks, poor lumber mill worker Noah Calhoun and wealthy seventeen year-old Allie Hamilton aren’t meant to fall in love, but in the end, nothing can keep them apart.

    Available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime, YouTube, Vudu, iTunes, and Google Play.

     

    New Summer Flicks for Adults

    Once Upon a Time In Hollywood – in theaters on July 26th

    Quentin Tarantino’s fans rejoice! The filmmaker’s newest project tells the story of a faded television actor and his stunt double (played by Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt) striving to achieve fame and success during the final years of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

     

    The Kitchen – in theaters on August 9th 

    Set in Hell’s Kitchen in the 1970s, Melissa McCarthy, Elisabeth Moss, and Tiffany Haddish star as the wives of New York gangsters in this crime comedy based off a comic book series.

     

    Whether you’re staying home for family movie night or going out to the theater on a date, these summer flicks are the perfect way to beat the heat. So grab some popcorn, and enjoy the show!

     

    This post contains affiliate link(s). If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but we will get a small commission. These affiliate links help our business continue to provide the best services possible. Thanks!

  • Red, White & Cute: Patriotic Summer Favorites for Your Little One

    Red, White & Cute: Patriotic Summer Favorites for Your Little One

    Summer is officially here! There’s nothing more fun than dressing your baby in a festive outfit, and with the Fourth of July just a week away , now is the time to get your little one stars and stripes ready. Carter’s is lighting up the sky this season with patriotic favorites for babies (including preemie) and kids up to size 14. Here, we’re sharing some of our favorite looks for both baby girls and baby boys that will keep them comfortable and cute all Independence Day long.

     

    Baby Girl

    Beat the heat in this sweet chambray bubble romper, complete with flutter details and allover stars. Crafted in 100% cotton, she’ll stay cool no matter how your family celebrates this Fourth of July.

    With its cute slogan and tulle tutu, this lightweight bodysuit made of 100% cotton jersey is a cozy choice for firework fun. Or, this festive tank and coordinating shorts is the perfect patriotic pair. For a matching look with a big sister or cousin, share the love with this two-piece Fourth of July inspired bodysuit and diaper cover set and American flag heart sequin tank.

    Baby will be ready to play in the sand in these super festive Fourth of July sunnies that also provide 100% UVA-UVB protection! Paired with a wide brim crochet flower sunhat, she’ll be able to enjoy the sunshine while also staying safe.

     

    Baby Boy

    This all-in-one outfit pairs a striped tee with classic shortalls, making it a festive and easy-to-wear option for the little guy. If your family’s Fourth plans involve splashing, these crab swim trunks will keep him comfy and protected all day long thanks to their covered elastic waistband and UPF 50+. And after he’s done playing in the water, this American flag tee crafted in extra soft slub jersey paired with pull-on French terry shorts will take him right through the fireworks.

    Show his pride in this two-piece Fourth of July tee and striped short set. Made of 100% cotton slub jersey (tee) and 100% cotton shirting poplin (shorts), he can rock this look from sunup to sundown.

    For a fancier Fourth, this piqué polo bodysuit looks crisp with canvas shorts for a handsome style. Complete his look with these adorable striped sneaker baby shoes, featuring padded insoles and no-tie elastic laces.

    No matter how you plan to celebrate this Independence Day, Carter’s has something for everyone in sizes preemie to 14 and is offering up to 60% off patriotic summer favorites to our readers. Like fireworks, this deal will go fast, so head over to Carter’s and shop their Fourth of July collections for baby girls and baby boys before it’s too late!

     

    This post contains affiliate link(s). If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but we will get a small commission. These affiliate links help our business continue to provide the best services possible. Thanks!

  • The Best Outdoor Games & Toys for Summer

    The Best Outdoor Games & Toys for Summer

    There’s so much to love about summer: trips to the beach, backyard barbeques, bike rides, fireworks, s’mores… the list goes on. Longer days mean there’s more time to get outside and play, and you don’t have to wait until your baby can crawl or swim to take full advantage of the fresh air. Studies have shown that the health benefits of nature for infants include the development of language and basic motor skills as well as the promotion of healthy sleep patterns, giving us all the more reason to get outdoors. Even just a walk around the block can do wonders for both baby and you, so investing in a quality stroller is an absolute must. And if there are older kids at home, you’ll want to have a bunch of activities on hand to get them outside as well (and avoid the inevitable groans of “I’m bored” over the coming months). Here, we’re rounding up the best outdoor games and toys for summer that children of all ages will enjoy.


    By Land or By Sea: Outdoor Fun for Babies & Toddlers

    While your little one may not be ready to swim just yet, the Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy by SwimWays is designed to help both babies and parents relax during the water introduction experience. Plus, its removable canopy has mesh sides and offers UPF 50+ sun protection.

    If you’re staying on land, the compact, lightweight folding frame of the Pop N’ Jump comes fully assembled and sets up in seconds while still providing important sun protection. And with its spinner ball, rattle, teether, mirror book, and jumping feature, your baby is sure to be entertained wherever you go.

    Splash mats are a great way for kids to keep cool in the heat, and this one by SwimSchool is designed specifically with babies in mind. Recommended for ages 6 to 18 months, the extra-wide inflatable mat also features a backrest and removable canopy to keep your little one upright and in the shade while splashing.

    No matter where you live, this duel sandbox and water table will transform your backyard or patio into your toddler’s very own beach. Holding both play sand and water, it’s guaranteed to become an instant outdoor favorite of kids and parents alike.

    Baby on the move? This wooden lawnmower push toy promotes the development of gross motor skills, and is perfect for new walkers. Plus, it is handcrafted with solid cherry and birch wood, and the balls are painted and sealed with a non-toxic, food-grade coloring.

    Take your little one for a bicycle ride in the 2 Seat Kids Bike Trailer by Burley. Its hammock style seat design means your child is not sitting on the floor of the trailer, and it folds flat for easy transportation and storage.


    Summer Cool Down: Backyard Activities for Kids

    For the smallest of green thumbs in your family, this Melissa & Doug gardening set is the perfect introduction to planting and growing. The five-piece set includes a sturdy tool belt with adjustable self-stick closure and pocket, gardening gloves, trowel, watering can, and plant pot.

    Don’t have a pool? No problem. The H2OGO! Fun Sketching Art Splash Blobz is more than just a cool surface for kids to play on and slide across. It also comes with five erasable crayons to use for coloring on the exterior of the blob for double the fun and creativity.


    Play Ball: Outdoor Games for the Whole Family

    Whether playing on grass or sand, this Rollors Outdoor Game combines the best parts of horseshoes, bocce ball, and bowling all into one. Our suggestion? Host a neighborhood tournament for a full afternoon of friendly competition.

    Baseball is America’s favorite pastime for a reason. Nothing beats a classic game of wiffle ball on a summer evening, and this complete set has everything you need to get started.

    Summer is finally here! Get the entire family outside with games and toys that encourage movement, creativity, and endless fun—just don’t forget the sunscreen!

    This post contains affiliate link(s). If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but we will get a small commission. These affiliate links help our business continue to provide the best services possible. Thanks!

  • Best Diaper Deals and Steals!

    Best Diaper Deals and Steals!

    Whether your little one is a newborn, or just learning to potty-train, it’s a good idea to stock up and ensure you have plenty of diapers on hand. Lucky for you, we’ve done the research and collected the best diaper deals, so all you have to do is pick your favorite brand and start saving!

    Disposable Diapers:

    If you use disposable diapers, you can save money by buying in bulk! Plus, those diapers won’t be going to waste! On average, a newborn will go through 70 diapers a week, a 3-6-month-old will go through 49 diapers a week, and a 6-12-month-old will go through 35 diapers a week. That’s a lot of diapers (2,457 in the first year, in fact)! It’s important to stock up and save where you can.

    Target:

    Target is a great option for saving on diapers. With their new digital coupon program Cartwheel, all you have to do is to sign up for a free account on cartwheel.target.com, refine the type of coupon you are looking for (diapers), and add the offers you want to your list. You can find amazing prices on Pampers, Huggies, and more! While these coupons were previously only redeemable in store, now when you check out on the Target App you can apply your coupons directly there and save on your online order.

    As if that couldn’t get better, when you have a REDcard, you can add your standard 5% discount on top of the coupons you apply to save even more! Also, Target provides amazing bundle deals and subscriptions, so you can stock up and feel awesome knowing you’re saving money.

    Amazon:

    Amazon has become a household name for getting you what you need, fast. But, have you been taking full advantage of what Amazon has to offer? You may not even know what you’re missing out on!

    If you are an Amazon Family member, you can save major money. Not an Amazon Family member yet? Don’t worry! We’re hooking you up with a free 30-day trial so you can try it out and see if you like it. You’ll have access to subscribe and save for 20% off your diaper purchase. Plus, through Amazon Family, you have access to exclusive coupons and deals, as well as free two-day shipping, which will come in handy when you realize you’re running low on diapers, but don’t want to purchase full-price diapers from the store.

    Costco / BJs:

    If you’re ready to buy in major bulk, Costco or BJs is your go-to. Costco and BJs provide huge bundles at amazing prices. While it may seem like a hassle to have to drive to your closest store and purchase in-person, the deals just may be worth it for you!

    Huggies:

    When you buy directly from Huggies, you have access to their current coupons, as well as their rewards program. Huggies provides a page designated for easily finding their latest deals on their diapers, all you have to do it click “coupons” in their navigation bar and you’re quickly on your way to saving money! Plus, when you sign up for Huggies Rewards Points you can start earning points when you purchase diapers and wipes. As you accumulate more points, you can redeem them for a range of perks such as gift cards and even diaper donations!

    Pampers:

    Similarly to Huggies, Pampers also has an easily accessible rewards program that allows members to “turn diapers into rewards.” With these points, you can get discounts to your favorite stores, free Pampers products, and much more! While you’re checking out Pampers’ rewards program, click on their offers page for access to all of their coupons and special offers to save even more!


    Cloth Diapers:

    If you prefer to use cloth diapers, there are plenty of options that offer quality items at great prices! When purchasing cloth diapers, it’s important to make sure that you invest in quality cloth diapers that are comfortable, leak proof, and durable. You won’t just be tossing these diapers in the diaper pail once your little one goes potty in them, so you want diapers that will last.

    GroVia:

    GroVia is a top name when it comes to cloth diapers. Not only do they sell high-quality diapers, they’re also cute and trendy! You can pick and choose from a variety of cute colors and patterns, as well as absorbency levels and diaper type.

    While you’re not stocking up on as many cloth diapers as you would disposable diapers, GroVia still provides the opportunity to stock up and save with “a bundle of benefits.” When you bundle, you benefit. Just choose how many cloth diapers you want (the more you get, the more you save), customize the look and feel, choose your cloth diaper inserts, and get ready to save! Plus, if this is your first time purchasing from GroVia, sign up and save 10% off your first order.

    Amazon:

    If you’re new to cloth diapers and aren’t sure which style or fit your baby needs, a one-size-fits-all cloth diaper from Mama Koala will do the trick! Get a pack of six of these cloth diapers in a variety of prints and patterns and feel confident that these diapers will provide amazing, leak-proof protection. And, as an Amazon Family member, you’ll have access to additional perks so you can save even more!

    Whether you’re looking for disposable or cloth diapers, you end up spending a good chunk of money on your baby’s diapers needs, which is why it’s important to save when you can. By taking advantage of coupons, discounts, and subscription deals, you don’t need to worry about paying full price on diapers.

    This post contains affiliate link(s). If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but we will get a small commission. These affiliate links help our business continue to provide the best services possible. Thanks!

  • Preparing Your Children For a Sibling

    Preparing Your Children For a Sibling

    When your first child was born, all of the attention was on your sweet newborn. With no other child competing for your affection, you were able to focus on your baby’s needs and learned tactics to maneuver through the challenges that came with being a new parent. Now, with another baby on the way, it’s time to prepare the family for the new baby. Your children are about to become older siblings to a new brother or sister, and this can be a big responsibility for them.

    A new sibling can be very exciting for children. There’s the possibility of having a new playmate and being the “big kid” in the family. However, when the novelty of a new baby wears off, older siblings may become clingy to parents and jealous of the attention that their little sibling receives.

    There’s no way to predict exactly how a child will act when there’s a new baby, so it’s recommended to prepare the older siblings as best as you can. Communicate openly and in age-appropriate ways so that your children are as ready as they can be for their roles as big brothers or sisters.

    Read a Book Together

    Reading is a great bonding activity for parents and children and can help communicate what it is like to be an older sibling. A book about a new baby brother or sister can help children begin to understand what they can expect with a new baby in the home. The story and lessons can also aid in getting the conversation started with your child. Some favorite books are:

    Build the Connection Between Your Child and Baby

    By involving your children in the preparation of the arrival of your new one (and allowing them to be “big helpers” as a big sister or big brother), they will feel more connected to their new sister or brother. Allow the kids to help paint the baby’s room, pick out clothes, or come to the doctor with you to hear the baby’s heartbeat. Play pretend with a baby doll so that your child can practice holding and interacting with a baby. One of the best ways to foster a personal connection with the baby is to have your child pick out a toy or other gift that your little one can give to the baby when he or she arrives. (Be sure to have a gift ready for the older sibling from the baby as well!)

    Make All Big Changes Before Baby Arrives

    There are going to be a lot of significant changes with the arrival of your new baby, so if there are any planned transitions coming up, do them now. If your child is ready to be potty-trained, weaned off a binky, or transitioned to a big-kid bed, it’s best to start the process before the baby arrives, for the comfort of your child (and your sanity).

    Remind Your Child About His/Her Importance

    Your child’s life is about to change and that can be scary and confusing. It’s important to remind children that by being who they are, they’re an extremely important part of the family. Praise your children for their unique, positive qualities and point out their contributions so that they can understand their value. Remark how each person in the family contributes something special and how important it is to have each person as a part of the family.

    While you and your partner are preparing for the new baby, it’s important to remember that your older children’s lives are about to change as well. If your children are old enough to understand, speak to them about the reality of a new baby (crying, feeding, attention), and be sure to include the exciting parts of having a new sibling as well. The more you allow your children to be involved in preparing for the arrival of the new baby, and the more you communicate with them about the big changes, the more prepared they will be as incredible older brothers and sisters.

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