Gentle Sleep Solutions

baby, FAM By December 31, 2008 Tags: , , , 1 Comment

Q – What are some gentle methods I can use to encourage sleep if I don’t feel comfortable letting the baby cry?

A – It’s very hard to train a baby to fall asleep by themselves without some crying as very often you are changing what the baby knows.  As an example if the baby is used to being nursed to sleep and you would like to teach them how to fall asleep by themselves they will cry on the first night whether you are in or out of the room as they are naturally responding to the changes that you have made of not nursing them. 

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Banana Avocado Mousse

baby, EAT By December 31, 2008 Tags: , , No Comments

Once in a while, when my 8 month old starts to go a little batty while I’m cooking in the kitchen, I’ll stop what I’m doing to make something with him.  He can totally be my co-pilot on this recipe. He helps me peel a banana and plop it in the blender. Then, I’ll wash and scoop the avocado and yogurt into the blender and then let him press the buttons so he can watch it all mix together.

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The Flu

The Flu

FAM, health By December 31, 2008 Tags: , , , 2 Comments

Influenza virus probably originated in birds, and moved to people thousands of years ago when people began to domesticate fowl. Influenza, in other words, was an “emerging disease”, much like SARS today. Over the centuries, influenza epidemics have had dramatic effects on human populations. For example, the 1918 pandemic, is estimated to have caused some 50 to 100 million deaths, and influenza (and smallpox) devastated the first nations peoples of North America with the arrival of Europeans.

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breech baby

Can acupuncture help turn a breech baby?

FAM, pregnancy By December 16, 2008 Tags: , , , , No Comments

Between the weeks of 28 – 32 of your pregnancy, most babies turn into the head down position. Once they have turned, they usually stay in this position because their head is the heaviest part of their body. However, some babies want to be close to their mommy’s heart so we find them in the breech presentation. Can acupuncture help turn a breech baby?

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Dressing for a larger bust

GEAR, style By December 16, 2008 Tags: , , , No Comments

Q – How should I deal with my increased breast size in clothing?

A – Breasts change drastically during pre-pregnancy, pregnancy and post pregnancy. Increased breast size can be as frustrating as not getting back into your jeans. But don’t hide it! Flaunt it, but first embrace it. Start by getting a proper fit. Believe it or not, the majority of all women aren’t wearing the proper bra for their breast. Wearing the right size bra is essential for proper support. Bulky knit sweaters and extra layers are definitely not what you want to be wearing. Instead opt for smooth silk button downs, smooth Tee shirts and printed wrap dresses.

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The Maxi Dress

GEAR, style By December 16, 2008 Tags: , , No Comments

Q – Does a maxi-dress really hide my tummy?

A – Borrowing from celebrity style (Anegelina loved these), the maxi-dress is a long, flowing frock that can certainly be comfy during the later stages of prenancy.  Just be sure that the bodice is fitted so you don’t look like you’ve donned a mu-mu.  And careful of lenght – we don’t want you tripping on a hem!

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Post-Delivery Dressing

Uncategorized By December 16, 2008 Tags: , , , No Comments

Q – How can I look better in the transition stage after having a baby?

A – Don’t assume that just because baby is out that you’ll be right back in your old clothes. Instead, give yourself at least 4 months before trying anything on. Know that Loose and baggy doesn’t have to equal frumpy.

Try pairing a tunic or a long sweater with black stretch pants and high boots. Empire waist dresses do marvels to widdle the middle and draw attention to the ‘right’ areas.

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Pregnancy Party Attire

Uncategorized By December 16, 2008 Tags: , , , No Comments

Q – What can I wear for parties while pregnant?

A – A mini dress. If you have the legs and the confidence.. Nothing takes away form a prego bellie then a hot little mono toned mini dress. Pair it with a high stilettos or a sexy boot.  For this season, you could also try a flowing maxi dress, or for a more tame occassion, a great maternity suit with a ’40s brooch clipped to the lapel.

– Alyssa Schottland-Bauman hails from New York City, and is our UrbanMommies Stylist.

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Hushamok Baby Hammock

Uncategorized By December 13, 2008 Tags: , , , No Comments

Hushamok
Well, we certainly had babies who just wouldn’t sleep and did our fair share of sling-carrying, hammock sleeping, and rocking for hours.  If only this had been available.  Much like the Amby Bed from Dr. Sears, the Hushamok is a super-stylish alternative which will help to lull infants to sleep in a snug cocoon.  It comes with 2 sheets, a travel bag, and a hip stand.

 

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Speech and Language Development

FAM, health By December 13, 2008 Tags: , , , No Comments

Early speech and language skills help your child to tell others about their ideas and feelings, wants and needs. Difficulties in communicating can lead to frustration and social or behaviour problems. Learning to communicate is the foundation for learning at school. Research has also shown that early development of language is important for academic success, for understanding the teacher, learning to read, write and do math, and for developing relationships with teachers, peers, and others that come to be a part of the lives of our children. One in ten children in Ontario will need help developing their speech and language skills to get ready for school.

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