UrbanMommies http://www.urbanmommies.com Your Online Baby Resource Tue, 13 May 2008 15:55:21 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.3.3 en How to hold on to a great nanny! http://www.urbanmommies.com/community/how-to-hold-on-to-a-great-nanny/ http://www.urbanmommies.com/community/how-to-hold-on-to-a-great-nanny/#comments Tue, 13 May 2008 15:55:21 +0000 arndrea http://www.urbanmommies.com/community/how-to-hold-on-to-a-great-nanny/ THE CARE AND FEEDING OF SUPER NANNY - Once you have her...how to keep her.

For every employer having great employees is good, having great, happy employee is even better.
If you have a nanny...you are an employer. Keeping your nanny happy often translates quite simply into ...keeping your nanny. Having a great nanny stay with your family for a long period of time means less stress for you (less training, less instructions, less time searching) and often it is means less stress for your kids (consistent loving bond, less anxiety, less fear of abandonment, deeper relationship)

Here are a variety of practical everyday things you can do to help keep a...]]> THE CARE AND FEEDING OF SUPER NANNY - Once you have her…how to keep her.

For every employer having great employees is good, having great, happy employee is even better.
If you have a nanny…you are an employer. Keeping your nanny happy often translates quite simply into (more…)

]]> http://www.urbanmommies.com/community/how-to-hold-on-to-a-great-nanny/feed/ London Drugs increasing BPA-free alternatives http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-baby/hungry-baby/london-drugs-increasing-bpa-free-alternatives/ http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-baby/hungry-baby/london-drugs-increasing-bpa-free-alternatives/#comments Thu, 08 May 2008 21:45:30 +0000 arndrea http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-baby/safe-baby/london-drugs-increasing-bpa-free-alternatives/ Consumer demand prompts London Drugs to increase offerings of BPA-free alternative products

Customers will find BPA-free products in London Drugs’ Baby section, BPA-free Reusable Water bottles, and BPA-free food storage containers.
Richmond, BC – (May 8, 2008) - With the health and safety of our customers being of utmost importance, London Drugs immediately removed baby bottles, sippy cups and select food containers and water bottles containing BPA from store shelves in April and provided customers refunds for 50,000 products – mostly baby bottles - containing BPA.

London Drugs now offers only BPA-free baby bottles, toddler sippy cups and child drinking cups from reputable manufacturers such as...]]> Consumer demand prompts London Drugs to increase offerings of BPA-free alternative products

Customers will find BPA-free products in London Drugs’ Baby section, BPA-free Reusable Water bottles, and BPA-free food storage containers.
Richmond, BC – (May 8, 2008) - With the health and safety of our customers being of utmost importance, London Drugs immediately removed baby bottles, sippy cups and select food containers and water bottles containing BPA from store shelves in April and provided customers refunds for 50,000 products – mostly baby bottles - containing BPA. (more…)

]]> http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-baby/hungry-baby/london-drugs-increasing-bpa-free-alternatives/feed/ 12 Protective Steps for the Dangers of BPA Poisoning http://www.urbanmommies.com/featured-1/12-protective-steps-for-the-dangers-of-bpa-poisoning/ http://www.urbanmommies.com/featured-1/12-protective-steps-for-the-dangers-of-bpa-poisoning/#comments Wed, 07 May 2008 04:48:27 +0000 Si Si http://www.urbanmommies.com/featured-1/12-protective-steps-for-the-dangers-of-bpa-poisoning/ bpaFrom Green Living Online
Written by Joyce Nelson, an environmental journalist based in Toronto.

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been in the news a lot these days. But is it really a health risk? According to leading scientists we should be worried.

What it is
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a central component in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. This chemical has been used for decades in the linings of canned foods, in plastic and baby bottles, in polymers of some dental fillings and in other plastic products. Now an expert scientific panel has warned that unsafe levels of BPA, leaching into our canned foods and bottled drinks,...]]> bpaFrom Green Living Online
Written by Joyce Nelson, an environmental journalist based in Toronto.

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been in the news a lot these days. But is it really a health risk? According to leading scientists we should be worried.

What it is
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a central component in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. This chemical has been used for decades in the linings of canned foods, in plastic and baby bottles, in polymers of some dental fillings and in other plastic products. Now an expert scientific panel has warned that unsafe levels of BPA, leaching into our canned foods and bottled drinks, pose a significant health hazard.

What it does
Bisphenol A is a class of chemicals known as endocrine-disruptors, mimicking the naturally occurring hormone estrogen. These chemicals can duplicate, block or exaggerate hormonal responses that control development of the brain, the reproductive system and other functions. (more…)

]]> http://www.urbanmommies.com/featured-1/12-protective-steps-for-the-dangers-of-bpa-poisoning/feed/ Allium Diaper/Messenger Bag http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-goods/stuff-for-you/allium-diapermessenger-bag/ http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-goods/stuff-for-you/allium-diapermessenger-bag/#comments Wed, 07 May 2008 03:26:38 +0000 Si Si http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-goods/featured-finds/allium-diapermessenger-bag/ Allium Diaper BagO.K. mommies, we know you need a diaper bag but this one is great with or without the diapers. Perfect for the baby or the gym the Allium Bag is a super cute diaper bag that doesn’t look like a diaper bag. It’s sturdy, easy to wipe and made of vinyl that’s a breeze to clean up. It has a multitude of both inside and outside pockets with the added bonus of a padded interior bottle pocket (think milk for the baby or water for you). The inside is lined with liquid resistant fabric so spills won’t be a problem! To pick up your own...]]> Allium Diaper BagO.K. mommies, we know you need a diaper bag but this one is great with or without the diapers. Perfect for the baby or the gym the Allium Bag is a super cute diaper bag that doesn’t look like a diaper bag. It’s sturdy, easy to wipe and made of vinyl that’s a breeze to clean up. It has a multitude of both inside and outside pockets with the added bonus of a padded interior bottle pocket (think milk for the baby or water for you). The inside is lined with liquid resistant fabric so spills won’t be a problem! To pick up your own or maybe order one for someone you love (think Mother’s Day people) visit Lavish and Lime.

]]> http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-goods/stuff-for-you/allium-diapermessenger-bag/feed/ Robeez Weekend Collection http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-goods/featured-finds/robeez-weekend-collection/ http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-goods/featured-finds/robeez-weekend-collection/#comments Tue, 06 May 2008 03:17:53 +0000 Si Si http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-goods/featured-finds/robeez-weekend-collection/ Leave it to Robeez to come up with yet another winner for your wee ones feet. The Weekend Collection comes in a kaleidoscope of colors with a new shape that is sure to please those of you with a passion for baby fashion. We already know that Robeez have soft flexible soles recommended by experts, are approved by the American Pediatric Medical Association, have skid-resistant textured suede soles and are breathable to keep feet cool and comfortable but who knew that all this could be so darn cute! To order your own check out all the new styles, shapes, and shades at Robeez.]]> Robeez Weekend CollectionLeave it to Robeez to come up with yet another winner for your wee ones feet. The Weekend Collection comes in a kaleidoscope of colors with a new shape that is sure to please those of you with a passion for baby fashion. We already know that Robeez have soft flexible soles recommended by experts, are approved by the American Pediatric Medical Association, have skid-resistant textured suede soles and are breathable to keep feet cool and comfortable but who knew that all this could be so darn cute! To order your own check out all the new styles, shapes, and shades at Robeez.

]]> http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-goods/featured-finds/robeez-weekend-collection/feed/ Baby of the Month http://www.urbanmommies.com/baby-of-the-month/baby-of-the-month-2/ http://www.urbanmommies.com/baby-of-the-month/baby-of-the-month-2/#comments Mon, 05 May 2008 03:30:14 +0000 arndrea http://www.urbanmommies.com/baby-of-the-month/baby-of-the-month-2/ My name is Marina Harrop. My daddy and mommy call me Ma-chan (which means Little Marina in Japanese). I am 21 months old and I love flowers. I only let my mommy put T-shirt's with flower prints on me or I scream. I have to stop to say hello to every flower. Mommy is complaining that it takes forever to get to the park. ]]> May baby of the monthMy name is Marina Harrop. My daddy and mommy call me Ma-chan (which means Little Marina in Japanese). I am 21 months old and I love flowers. I only let my mommy put T-shirt's with flower prints on me or I scream. I have to stop to say hello to every flower. Mommy is complaining that it takes forever to get to the park.

]]> http://www.urbanmommies.com/baby-of-the-month/baby-of-the-month-2/feed/ Momcafe Event - How to be a Smart Ass http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-hood/what-about-you-mommy/momcafe-event-how-to-be-a-smart-ass/ http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-hood/what-about-you-mommy/momcafe-event-how-to-be-a-smart-ass/#comments Fri, 02 May 2008 20:58:04 +0000 arndrea http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-hood/what-about-you-mommy/momcafe-event-how-to-be-a-smart-ass/ mom cafe social networking Smart Ass is a fabulous brand of women's lingerie headquartered in beautiful Vancouver, BC. Sold throughout North America, Smart Ass is the inspiration of two former marketing executives, Alix Cameron and Cindy Ball, or as they're now known, the Original Smart Ass Girls. With sassy sayings printed on their fabulous products, such as -“you’re hot”, “sex pot” and “va va voom”, Cindy and Alix, who show unrivaled media savvy and a wicked sense of humour, are fearless marketers who will share their fun loving and daring approach to business at the June 13 momcafé event. Don’t...]]> mom cafe social networking Smart Ass is a fabulous brand of women's lingerie headquartered in beautiful Vancouver, BC. Sold throughout North America, Smart Ass is the inspiration of two former marketing executives, Alix Cameron and Cindy Ball, or as they're now known, the Original Smart Ass Girls. With sassy sayings printed on their fabulous products, such as -“you’re hot”, “sex pot” and “va va voom”, Cindy and Alix, who show unrivaled media savvy and a wicked sense of humour, are fearless marketers who will share their fun loving and daring approach to business at the June 13 momcafé event. Don’t miss it!

Friday, June 13, 2008
9:30am to 11:30am
Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co, Kitsilano

momcafé connects and inspires like-minded Moms by providing an interesting and supportive cafe setting in which Moms can learn from each other and share ideas. momcafé is designed for YOU. Each event will provides interesting speakers, stimulating conversation, a light breakfast, childcare and a charity contribution. 

To register, visit www.momcafe.net

]]> http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-hood/what-about-you-mommy/momcafe-event-how-to-be-a-smart-ass/feed/ The Nanny - Her role and responsibilities http://www.urbanmommies.com/community/the-nanny-her-role-and-responsibilities/ http://www.urbanmommies.com/community/the-nanny-her-role-and-responsibilities/#comments Fri, 02 May 2008 20:05:09 +0000 arndrea http://www.urbanmommies.com/community/the-nanny-her-role-and-responsibilities/

There are as many different childcare positions as there are childcare workers. Roles (and rates of pay) can range from, first time supervised babysitter to Executive Nanny. Titles that get thrown about with abandon can also include Mother’s Helper, Au Pair, Nursery/Maternity Nurse, Nanny, Night Nanny, Child minder, Nanny/Personal Assistant, or Nanny/Housekeeper and on and on and on.  In North...]]> Being a nanny is a career choice created in a grey zone. In Canada the role has been blurred significantly with the introduction of the “Live In Caregiver Program.”  Expectations on both the part of Employers and Nannies alike vary greatly. This miscommunication is the main cause for the high rate of disgruntled Nannies, disappointed employers and abandoned childcare contracts. (more…)

]]> http://www.urbanmommies.com/community/the-nanny-her-role-and-responsibilities/feed/ Breastfeeding Workshops http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-belly/breastfeeding-2/breastfeeding-workshops/ http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-belly/breastfeeding-2/breastfeeding-workshops/#comments Thu, 17 Apr 2008 03:52:45 +0000 arndrea http://www.urbanmommies.com/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-workshops/ Cherish Childbirth Care presents FREE Breastfeeding & Nutrition Workshops in May
This is an informative community event to Celebrate International Doula Month benefiting the Pacific Postpartum Support Society.

Breastfeeding symbol, breastfeeding clinicsMay 4th: 10am-12pm Vie Maternity, 1038 Hamilton Street, Vancouver, BC
May 5th: 7pm-9pm Nima’ma, 2938 West 4th Avenue
May 25th: 10am-12pm Belly & Beyond, 4118 Main Street
 
* Tips and tricks for successful breastfeeding
* How to nourish yourself while breastfeeding
* What a Doula is and how she can help you during labour and after your baby arrives 
* Registration...]]> Cherish Childbirth Care presents FREE Breastfeeding & Nutrition Workshops in May
This is an informative community event to Celebrate International Doula Month benefiting the Pacific Postpartum Support Society. (more…)

]]> http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-belly/breastfeeding-2/breastfeeding-workshops/feed/ When to start signing with your baby http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-baby/healthy-baby/when-to-start-signing-with-your-baby/ http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-baby/healthy-baby/when-to-start-signing-with-your-baby/#comments Sun, 13 Apr 2008 17:21:01 +0000 arndrea http://www.urbanmommies.com/the-baby/healthy-baby/when-to-start-signing-with-your-baby/

Babies have the motor skills to sign back between 8 and 11 months, typically when first waves for "BYE-BYE" and the "PICK ME UP" gesture starts. So this is when productions or expression of signs can typically appear. But understanding or the ability to receive signs can occur much earlier.

Babies younger than 8 months may get excited about seeing the sign for "BATH" or "MILK". Often at trade shows and presentations, moms...]]> Often I'm asked "What is the optimal age to introduce signs to our baby?". I tell families I started signing with Joshua and Sabrina when they were 6 months…but now, knowing what I know, I would start much earlier…from birth. (more…)

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