Packing a diaper bag that contains everything you do need while out and about with baby can leave some new moms perplexed. You may be wondering what is absolutely essential to place in a diaper bag, and what can be left at home – there is no need to pack the kitchen sink to clean hands on-the-go!

Packing the Perfect Diaper Bag

First, you need to select a diaper bag that suits your style and needs. For some moms, a large purse will do, and for others, a separate bag that can handle the inevitable spills and crumbs that accompany little ones is an absolute must. “Mom’s” pick? The Slide Tote Bag by Go GaGa! This versatile, modern tote bag that is both roomy and stylish is very comfortable and can be worn by Dads, as well! Plus, it comes with a discreet changing pad for diaper changes while out and about.

Second, diapers, diapers and more diapers. Whether you use cloth diapers or disposables, having these on hand is truly a necessity.

Third, add some eco-friendly baby wipes to your bag, such as Jackson Reece or Bum Boosa™, for diaper changes and quickly cleaning hands and mouths.

Fourth, choose healthy, portable snacks for toddlers that make the least amount of mess while on-the-go. HAPPYBABY PUFFS are a great option, as are Plum Organics re-sealable pouches filled with yummy, organic blended fruits and veggies.

Fifth, entertain fussy tots with easy-to-pack, lightweight toys, such as the Trix Triangle by Haba or the twistable, bendable and pliable cuff by Oh Plah. Small board books pack nicely, as well, and are always a kid-pleaser.

Sixth, tissues and/or organic burp cloths for infants. Runny noses and spit-up are a natural part of being a baby, and being without anything but the hem of your dress or shirt sleeve is never fun!

Seven, BPA-free water bottles, such as the Twist’N Pop Straw Cup by Born Free to keep toddlers hydrated, and regular bottles for formula if you are not breastfeeding. Don’t forget to pack a water bottle for yourself, as well!

Just these seven items will keep everyone healthy and happy while on the move, and won’t leave Mom or Dad with aching shoulders at the end of the day!

*Images provided by companies mentioned above.*

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The I Love My Mama gift set is regularly $29.95, now 25% off with special limited time Holiday Bonus, 4 oz. Body Butter. Visit Earth Mama Angel Baby to take advantage of this special offer.

*This is not a paid advertorial. Please see disclosure.*

Searching for a last-minute gift for the expecting mom-to-be this season? Look no further than TrueWomb™ – it is a gift that both mama and her precious cherub will really appreciate, especially in those first few months after baby’s arrival! The TrueWomb™ sleep system helps to ease newborns and infants into slumber, providing a safe, secure womb-like feeling. For those parents and caregivers new to swaddling, TrueWomb™ makes it a breeze for anyone to quickly and snugly swaddle a fussy baby. With easy-to-follow instructions, this innovative new sleep system helps to soothe and calm little ones in no time.

What are the Advantages to Swaddling?

  • Helps babies feel safe and secure while adapting to life outside the womb
  • Provides the “4th Trimester” that babies need for proper development
  • Promotes longer periods of quality sleep for newborns and infants, important for health and development
  • Helps control the startle reflex of newborns and infants to improve sleep patterns
  • Helps induce babies’ natural calming reflex to reduce fussiness and stress
  • Reduces the risk of SIDS by letting babies sleep on their backs
  • Helps colic by providing snug abdomen pressure and better sleeping patterns

What are the Advantages to Using the TrueWomb™ Swaddle?

  • Patent-pending design mimics the comforting form and function of the womb
  • SwaddleTech™ pouch allows baby’s legs to kick and stretch, returning them to the naturally desired fetal position while at rest
  • SecureSleeve™ escape-proof arm pockets allow movement of the arms
  • ComfortWrap™ belt adjusts for growth and provides a gentle, snug fit
  • Two-stage swaddle system supports evolving needs as baby develops and grows
  • Lightweight, breathable, four-way stretch cotton fabric helps to prevent overheating
  • Improves quality of sleep by reducing the “startle reflex”
  • Reduces gastrointestinal colic symptoms
  • Enhances feeding
  • 100% money-back guarantee

“Mom” wishes that she had discovered the TrueWomb™ Swaddle much earlier! With a high-need baby who constantly needed to be held, rocked, sung to, and swaddled, this sleep system would have made swaddling her little one that much easier!

The TrueWomb™ Swaddle is available in two designs, the Sleeping Swaddle and the Daytime Weaning Swaddle, and costs a reasonable $39.99. To learn more about TrueWomb™, to locate a retailer near you, or to order, please visit TrueWomb.com.

*Company generously provided samples and images for this review.*

There are tons of nursing covers available today and it can be quite a task for a nursing mom or mom-to-be to sort through all the different styles and designs to find the perfect one for her!

To help moms become familiar with what is available below are the most common types and the pros and cons of each so that moms can make an informed decision without searching endlessly for information.

Which Nursing Cover is Right for You?

Ponchos

Ponchos go on directly over the head, have full coverage around the front sides and back and fall down to the hips. These are very modern and new to the nursing cover market. The DRIA Nursing Cover is probably the best known.

• Pros: These are full coverage but made of comfortable, breathable material. More modern and available in a variety of prints that can be worn just as a fashion accessory with a pair of jeans. These also double as a car seat and stroller cover.

• Cons: Because these tend to be made of high-quality fabrics and are more versatile than just a nursing cover, they are a bit more expensive than other covers.

Shawls

Shawls are similar to ponchos but are usually much shorter, falling just below the belly-button. They go over the head and cover the shoulders. They do not have any arm holes so it is completely open underneath.

• Pros: These are usually more lightweight than other covers and easy to hold the baby while getting situated.

• Cons: Large neck hole often slips off the shoulders so it is difficult to keep in place. Capes tend to be very short in front and back leaving exposed skin. Not very fashionable – stands out and is obvious to everyone that mom is nursing.

Slings

Slings hang over one shoulder and cross the front of mom’s body to the opposite side’s hip and around the back. The baby rests in the sash on mom’s belly.

• Pros: These are great for carrying newborns and many can be used for nursing. Designed for the mom who is very comfortable nursing in public as they do not cover the baby. Good for hot climates because the baby is exposed.

• Cons: Babies can be easily distracted since they are out in the open. The nipple is also exposed prior to latching and some breast will always show. Moms need to wear a button-down shirt or nursing blouse. They are a bit difficult to put on and get situated.

Aprons

Aprons are designed similar to a kitchen apron, with a loop that goes over the head and is open on the back and sides.

• Pros: Lightweight, easy to put on with one hand. Aprons are longer in the front than a lot of other covers.

• Cons: Does not cover your back or sides so mom needs to wear a button-down shirt or special nursing blouse to stay covered.

Each type of nursing cover has its positive and negative aspects and it really depends on mom’s level of comfort nursing in public on much coverage she may need.

About the Author: S. Sparks is a writer for small businesses and online stores with an emphasis on health and beauty. Some of her most recent work includes articles and press for Budget Wine sites and San Diego DUI Lawyer sites.

*Image provided by DRIA Nursing Cover.*

Counselors at the California Teratogen Information Service (CTIS) Pregnancy Health Information Line, a non-profit based at the University of California, San Diego that aims to educate women about exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding, have compiled a list of the most common holiday foods to avoid during pregnancy.

“It’s crucial we spread the word during this time of year, especially about avoiding alcohol in pregnancy,” said Dr. Christina Chambers, professor of pediatrics at UCSD and program director of CTIS Pregnancy Health Information Line. “In fact, it’s during this time of year when we receive the most number of calls from women who overindulged, found themselves pregnant and are now concerned about the amount of alcohol they consumed during the first few weeks of their unplanned pregnancies,” she added.

Fetal Health Experts List Top 10 Seasonal Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy

Counselors who provide California women answers to questions about exposures during pregnancy and lactation through a toll-free hotline (800) 532-3749, said many drinks and foods commonly served as appetizers or main courses during the holidays can lead to pregnancy problems, including:

1. Spiced Cider

Many spiced ciders will contain alcohol. Spiced wine is also a commonly served drink around the holidays. If you’re not sure if there is alcohol in what’s being served to you, just ask. Also, avoid those drinks that might contain wine, beer or liquor. “Drinking alcohol during pregnancy is a leading cause of mental retardation,” explained Laurel Prince, a CTIS teratogen information specialist.

2. Eggnog

Eggnog lattes are coming soon to a coffee shop near you, but so are punchbowls full of eggnog and brandy. It’s okay to enjoy the first (as long as it’s decaf), but make sure to avoid the second! Pasteurized eggnog can be a delicious treat, but alcohol should be avoided.

3. Rum Balls

Delicious? Yes. A good idea during pregnancy? No. Unfortunately rum balls actually do contain some alcohol. If craving chocolate, reach for something that doesn’t contain alcohol. “It’s great to indulge a little bit when it comes to chocolate,” explained Prince. “Just also be aware that chocolate contains caffeine and pregnant women shouldn’t consume more than 300mg of caffeine per day,” she added.

4. Soft Cheeses (Panela, Cotija, Queso Fresco, Blue-Veined Cheeses, Brie, Feta, Camembert)

Unless it’s labeled as “made with pasteurized milk,” it should be avoided. Unpasteurized milk can contain the bacteria listeria monocytogenes. This bacteria can cause listeriosis, an infection that can harm a developing baby and increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, uterine infection, premature labor, and death in the newborn. To avoid this problem, make sure to look for the “made with pasteurized milk” label.

5. Hot Dogs and Luncheon Meats

Hot dogs and luncheon meats are also places listeria monocytogenes bacteria like to hang out. Make sure to reheat them until they are steaming hot. Otherwise, choose another delicious deli treat.

6. Pate

Refrigerated pates or meat spread can also cause listeriosis, so it’s best to avoid them during pregnancy. If you’re craving the spreading sensation, try peanut butter, almond butter or pasteurized cream cheese.

7. Imported Candies

Lead has been found in some consumer candies imported from Mexico. Lead has also been found in the wrappers of some imported candies. To be safe, stick to non-imported candies this holiday season. High levels of lead during pregnancy can cause low birth weight, premature delivery, miscarriage, and even stillbirth.

8. Undercooked Turkey & Ham

Food poisoning can affect everyone, including pregnant woman. Be sure that meat is cooked at the correct temperature for the correct amount of time. Using those meat thermometers will help do the trick! If you aren’t cooking the meat yourself, make sure you check with the chef to ensure its cooked all the way through.

9. Tuna

For all of you tuna tar-tar lovers, just remember the recommendation for fish consumption during pregnancy is no more than 12 oz. of large predator fish (tuna, shark, tilefish, king mackerel) per week since it contains methylmercury. In addition, large predator fish are more likely to contain higher amounts of methylmercury. High levels of methylmercury can lead to birth defects such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and blindness.

10. Smoked Seafood

Remember that pesky bacteria listeria monocytogenes that makes those delicious soft cheeses off-limits? It turns out it can live in smoked seafood too. Don’t eat refrigerated smoked meats unless they are ingredients in a dish that has been cooked, such as a casserole. Examples of refrigerated smoked seafood include salmon, trout, whitefish, cod, tuna, and mackerel, which are most often labeled as “nova-style,” “lox,” “kippered,” “smoked,” or “jerky.”

More information on the exposures mentioned can be found on www.CTISPregnancy.org.

CTIS Pregnancy Health Information Line is the California affiliate of OTIS, a North American non-profit dedicated to providing accurate evidence-based, clinical information to patients and health care professionals about exposures during pregnancy and lactation through its toll-free hotline and website, www.OTISPregnancy.org. Nearly 100,000 women seek information about birth defect prevention from OTIS and its affiliates every year.

Head on over to Earth Mama Angel Baby for 25% off of the Postpartum Recovery Kit – a perfect gift for new and expecting moms! What’s inside? Monthly Comfort Tea, Postpartum Recovery Bath Herbs, New Mama Bottom Spray, Happy Mama Spray, and Earth Mama® Bottom Balm®.

To take advantage of this special offer, click here.

*This is not a paid advertorial. Please see disclosure.*

Carry all of baby’s necessities in eco-friendly style with the World Peace Eco Tote from Amy Michelle! This roomy bag shows moms’ eco-conscious side, and features a plethora of pockets for keeping everything neat and tidy while out and about with baby. The World Peace Eco-Tote is made from 11 recycled plastic bottles and 8.5 oz of reused fabric, making it a planet-friendly gal’s dream.

What “Mom” loves about this diaper bag is that it can also be carried by Dad! With an adjustable shoulder strap, the World Peace Eco Tote offers parents a bag that they can both share when caring for baby, in a style that suits everyone. It can also be strapped to a stroller, if needed.

Unique features of the World Peace Eco Tote include:

Baby’s Section

  • Changing pad (21″ x 14″) – Remove padding to wash lining
  • 2 Internal & 2 external bottle pockets (baby or water bottles)
  • Quick release pacifier holder
  • 5 pockets for maximum organization
  • Compartments for diapers, wipes, and bottles
  • Stroller attachments included

Parent’s Section:

  • Top zipper closure
  • Zip closure outside front pocket with cell phone pocket
  • Adjustable shoulder strap (can convert to quick backpack)
  • Easy to find key ring
  • Bright lining with recycled symbol
  • Monogramming available

To learn more about Amy Michelle, to view their other styles, or to order a World Peace Eco Tote, please visit www.amymichelle.com.

*Company generously provided samples and images for review.*

Baby Sleep and Daylight Savings (Fall Back)

The end of daylight savings is getting closer and many parents are wondering what to do to maintain their baby or toddler’s sleep habits, despite the time change. We ‘fall back’ to Standard Time on Sunday, November 7th 2010* at 2a.m. by setting our clock back one hour. That usually means that our children wake up one hour earlier the following morning.

3 Ways to Help Your Baby Adjust to the New Time

By Diana Gonzalez Blanco, Founder, Smooth Parenting

Baby sleep challenges are not uncommon during daylight savings time adjustments. Still, there are some general tips that you can follow to have a smoother transition, regardless on how you decide to adjust your child’s schedule to the new time:

  • Continue your bedtime and naptime routines. The regular and familiar routines you follow when putting your baby to sleep should be maintained.
  • Keep your baby’s nursery dark, so the daylight (and nightlight) changes do not interfere with his/her sleep.
  • Carry on promoting positive sleep associations.
  • Remember that consistency is still key.
  • Change your watch and clocks to the new time before going to bed, November 7th.

In addition to these measures, there are three basic approaches we can follow to help children with the transition:

Gradual ‘Pre- Fall Back Day’ Transition

Starting Thursday, November 4th 2010, move your baby/ toddler bedtime back 15 minutes each night. Your baby’s whole daily schedule moves back those 15 minutes the day after. This way, you will have shifted your baby’s schedule ahead by one hour by the time you have to move your clock back one hour. Therefore, your baby would be going to sleep at his usual time right away, based on the Standard Time right away.

See the chart below for guidance. Note that this chart assumes baby’s current bedtime is 7pm and waking time is 7am.

For an even smoother transition, you can start moving your baby’s bedtime back 10 minutes on Tuesday, November 2nd 2010.

Date Transition Steps Current Time (Daylight Savings Time) New Time(Standard Time)
Thursday, November 4th Move back your baby’s bedtime to 7:15pm 7:15pm 6:15pm
Friday, November 5th Move back your baby’s daily schedule, starting at wake-up time 7:15am 7:15am 6:15am
Move back your baby’s bedtime to 7:30pm 7:30pm 6:30pm
Saturday, November 6th Move back your baby’s daily schedule, starting at wake-up time 7:30am 7:30am 6:30am
Move back your baby’s bedtime to 7:45pm 7:45pm 6:45pm
Sunday, November 7th(Fall Back Night) Move back your baby’s daily schedule, starting at wake-up time 7:45am 7:45am 6:45am
Move back your baby’s bedtime to 8:00pm 8:00pm 7:00pm
Monday, November 8th(Standard Time in Place) Regular waking time 7:00am 8:00am(Doesn’t apply!) 7:00am

Gradual ‘Post- Fall Back Day’ Transition

The day after the daylight savings time ends, Monday November 8th, 2010, your baby will most likely wake up one hour earlier than usual (based on the clock). Starting then you should make sure your baby, toddler’s naptime and bedtime are 45 minutes earlier than his/her regular schedule the first day; 30 minutes earlier the second day; and 15 minutes earlier the third day.

The whole daily schedule adjusts to those changes accordingly. By doing this, your baby would be going to sleep and waking up at his regular times, based on the Standard Time, by Friday November 12th.

See the chart below for guidance. Note that this chart assumes baby’s current bedtime is 7pm and waking time is 7am, with the first nap at 9am and the second one at 12:30pm.

Date Transition Steps Current Time (Daylight Savings Time) New Time(Standard Time)
Monday, November 8th(Standard Time in Place) Your baby will wake up one hour earlier than usual ~ 6:00am 7:00am(Doesn’t apply!) 6:00am
Move up your baby’s first nap time 45 minutes ~ 8:15am (instead on 9:00am) 9:15am 8:15am
Move up your baby’s second nap time 45 minutes ~ 11:45am (instead of 12:30pm) 12:45pm 11:45am
Move up your baby’s bedtime 45 minutes ~ 6:15pm (instead of 7pm) 7:15pm 6:15pm
Tuesday, November 9th Your baby will wake up 45 minutes earlier than usual ~ 6:15am 7:15am(Doesn’t apply!) 6:15am
Move up your baby’s first nap time 30 minutes ~ 8:30am (instead on 9:00am) 9:30am 8:30am
Move up your baby’s second nap time 30 minutes ~ 12:00pm (instead of 12:30pm) 1:00pm 12:00pm
Move up your baby’s bedtime 30 minutes ~ 6:30pm (instead of 7pm) 7:30pm 6:30pm
Wednesday, November 10th Your baby will wake up 30 minutes earlier than usual ~ 6:30am 7:30am(Doesn’t apply!) 6:30am
Move up your baby’s first nap time 15 minutes ~ 8:45am (instead on 9:00am) 9:45am 8:45am
Move up your baby’s second nap time 15 minutes ~ 12:15pm (instead of 12:30pm) 1:15pm 12:15pm
Move up your baby’s bedtime 15 minutes ~ 6:45pm (instead of 7pm) 7:45pm 6:45pm
Thursday, November 11th Your baby will wake up 15 minutes earlier than usual ~ 6:45am 7:45am(Doesn’t apply!) 6:45am
Move up your baby’s first nap time to its usual time (9:00am) 10:00am 9:00am
Move up your baby’s second nap to its usual time (12:30pm) 1:30pm 12:30pm
Move up your baby’s bedtime to its usual time (7pm) 8:00pm 7:00pm
Friday, November 12th Your baby will wake at his usual waking time 8:00am 7:00am

For an even smoother transition, you can adjust your baby’s schedule in increments of 10 minutes.

Immediate Transition

The day after the daylight savings time ends, you follow your baby’s schedule based on Standard Time. Therefore, on Monday November 8th, 2010 you switch your child ‘cold turkey’ to the new time. This option tends to be harder on children and on parents, and would be only advisable for children who are extremely adaptable to changes and new schedules.

Regardless of the approach you decide to take, remember that every child is different and they will adjust differently to changes in their sleep schedule. It takes several days to adjust to the new times, so be prepared for your baby to wake up earlier than usual on occasions, to be crankier than usual during the afternoon, and/or to be sleepier during the first days of the transition.

Be patient, loving and consistent to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

*2010 Daylight Savings ends:

  • Sunday, November 7th at 2 a.m. in the United States and Canada
  • October 31st in Europe, Mexico and Central America

2010 Daylight Savings Starts in most countries of the South Hemisphere, October 3rd

Diana Gonzalez Blanco, B.B.A., M.B.A., is a Certified Youth, Parenting and Family Coach; a Baby and Toddler Sleep Expert; and founder of Smooth Parenting. Smooth Parenting is a baby & toddler sleep training consultancy and parenting coaching firm, that helps families around the world get a good night sleep and a peaceful, smooth and happy family life. Diana has an impressive track record of helping families teach their babies to sleep. Her approach to sleep training and parenting is gentle, progressive, effective, holds the wellbeing of the child first, and follows the guidelines provided by the American Association of Pediatrics.

For more baby sleep and parenting tips, sign up for Smooth Parenting’s FREE newsletter at http://www.SmoothParenting.com; and follow them on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/SmoothParenting.

*Image and article courtesy of Smooth Parenting.*

New Mom, New Image: A Mommy Makeover

by Emily Roy

After having four babies in five years, nursing for a total of forty-seven months and getting up at least once during the night for six years, I was groggy, saggy and stretched, to say the least. I hardly even felt like myself anymore. And every time I stepped out the door I couldn’t understand how other moms looked so put together; they looked human and I felt like a zombie! What were they doing to look so comfortable in their new mommy skin that I was missing? For starters, they were probably showering but upon further inspection, I noticed a few things about these moms who looked like real people. I was surprised to discover that it actually wasn’t as complicated or time consuming as the end result appeared. So here is a quick list of the best things you can do for yourself to reclaim a little of the woman you still are:

  • Know your proportions. The end goal is always to create an hourglass shape.
  • Don’t wear things that are too tight (the sausage effect – not good)…Or too loose (the eternally pregnant effect–also not good). If you like comfy clothes, go for softer fabrics, cute flats, even a sundress.
  • Get a sitter before you shop (if only Ikea sold clothes!). Don’t even try a serious shopping trip with your kids. You’ll end up with just half an outfit before someone melts down.
  • Be prepared. Don’t shop for an event last minute, be ready with an outfit for a bridal shower, date night, etc. You will save yourself money, frustration and probably rescue yourself from an outfit you don’t like.
  • Wear a ponytail, just make it a cute one–put a little braid in front, or part your hair before putting it back into a low ponytail.
  • If you’re hair is short, be honest with yourself: is it working for you? It may be time to consult with a stylist for some suggestions (I know, it feels like you’re cheating on your current stylist but a mom’s gotta look good!). And keep up on your haircuts; schedule your next appointment as you leave the salon.
  • Keep your lip gloss handy. For me, this means they are everywhere: glove box, junk drawer, the Barbie castle, etc.
  • Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. You will instantly look like you have it more together than you do! And scarves and long necklaces can have a slimming effect when used to create a vertical line down your chest.
  • Expand your wardrobe beyond jeans. This was a hard one for me because I love my jeans, but I have discovered dresses which brings me to my last tip…
  • Try a dress! They are generally more forgiving to your figure and they can easily be dressed up or down. An empire waist can hide a little leftover baby weight and you’ll feel feminine even if you’re playing cars with your two year old!

Recently I worked with Janice Hurley-Trailor, The Image Expert, on a makeover of a new mom. Lisa owns a gym, teaches gymnastics and dotes on her two small children. Needless to say, her attire tends to consist of workout clothes! Janice put her in soft gray cords with similarly colored boots, a layered long sleeved shirt under a tank with a belt and a sassy, face-flattering haircut. Her earrings are small so as not to overwhelm her delicate face, layering her shirts adds interest and sophistication (plus it extends a summer tank into fall), the belt adds definition and the boots lengthen her legs. Goodbye workout mama, hello hot mama!

These are relatively simple, time-friendly ideas that any mom can implement even in the most chaotic days of early motherhood. Honestly, the hardest part is remembering that even as moms we deserve to turn a little of that love and attention we give to our children back on ourselves.

Oh and do shower—It really goes a long way toward feeling wholly human and not just a receptacle for spit-up, snot and drool!

MORE ABOUT EMILY ROY

Copy editor turned mother of four in five years, Emily Roy is just now coming up for air. She has led over a hundred moms as Director of Mom’s Group at her local church in Tacoma, WA. Roy has written everything from Sunday school curriculum to website text to poetry published in The Trillium. She has a BA from the University of Washington, Tacoma in Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences with a Concentration in Arts, Media and Culture. Between laundry and hugs, she trains for triathlons and patience. She is currently at work on a new book on makeovers for new moms with image expert, Janice Hurley-Trailor.

MORE ABOUT JANICE HURLEY-TRAILOR

Janice Hurley-Trailor is an image expert with 25 years of experience. She has worked with professional practices, businesses, and government agencies. She is the mother of four grown children and grandmother to seven.

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