Birth Defects Prevention Month
January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month Birth defects are common, costly, and critical. Every 4½ minutes, a baby is born with a major birth defect in the United States. Become an active participant in National Birth Defects Prevention Month by joining the nationwide effort to raise awareness of birth defects, their causes, and their […]
Learn the Lingo
“Chat speak” is a language of its own. You are probably familiar with BRB and LOL, but the parenting world has its own codes for discussing family issues. Here is a glossary of commonly used acronyms found on “Mom” chat boards. FTM = First Time Mom LO = Little One DD = Dear or Darling […]
Breastfeeding: Preparing during Pregnancy
By Doraine Bailey, MA, IBCLC, RLC As you look forward to the birth of your baby and getting started with breastfeeding, there are many things you can do during your pregnancy to be ready. First of all, talk with your doctor and delivery hospital about your desire to breastfeed. Ask questions of your obstetrician and […]
Myth vs. Truth of Kangaroo Care
During your pregnancy you probably will learn about Kangaroo Care, the practice of holding your baby skin-to-skin after birth. But do you know the facts? Double check your knowledge on who benefits from Kangaroo Care and how. Myth: Only premature babies need Kangaroo Care. Truth: All babies benefit from Kangaroo Care, whether premature or […]
The Basics of 529 College Savings Plans
By Jennifer Quillen It’s never too early to start planning for your baby’s future. So what can you do now to save money for your child’s education? Consider a 529 College Savings Plan. What is it? A college savings plan is a qualified tuition program established under Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code. Basically, […]
Bringing Baby Home: A Car Seat Checklist
By Kaitlyn Silvestri Ellis, CPST Take this checklist to the hospital with you to remember what to do and look for when strapping your newborn in their car seat for the first time, and every time. ✔ Is the baby wearing light clothing? Remember no snow suits or jackets! (a warm blanket can be placed over […]
The Care You Need May Be Closer Than You Think
The Women’s Hospital Saint Joseph East, part of KentuckyOne Health, is the state’s first freestanding women’s hospital and provides state-of-the-art care for healthy new families and for moms and babies experiencing complications. The hospital features private labor and delivery and postpartum rooms, a 32-crib nursery, and a 16-bay, Level III neonatal intensive care unit. “Our […]
Tips for First-Time Santa Pics
Pictures with Santa are a holiday tradition for most, but this photo opportunity takes more planning than you might think. Entire websites are devoted to pictures of children screaming and crying on St. Nick’s lap. To avoid the meltdown, here are some simple tips: Time it right. Avoid going near naptime or meal time. Ask […]
Baby Bump Holiday Gift Guide
BOOK PICKS: “Lily the Fancipoo” This beautifully illustrated children’s book follows the adventures of a spoiled pup as she learns to value friendship over material things. This book comes with your own stuffed Lily to cuddle as you read along! Little ones who love fancy things will adore Lily, and the storyline will please any […]
Thanksgiving & Pregnancy Nausea
Thanksgiving is notoriously one of the largest family meals of the year. If you’re battling pregnancy nausea and morning sickness this November, you might be in for a rough holiday. Here are some tips for making it through the meal without upsetting your already delicate stomach. Don’t Starve Yourself. Eat small amounts of food throughout […]