As a new parent, you already have a lot on your plate without also having to figure out what to make for each meal, shop, and prep for what's on your actual food plate. That's why it's crucial to utilize the variety of postpartum meal delivery services available to ensure your family is eating nourishing, supportive foods for this critical time in your life to make things easier. You may be wondering what a postpartum meal delivery service is, all about the different types of meal delivery services, and the benefits of each. You may find that one option fits your family's needs best, or a blend of postpartum meal services. Get ready to discover a range of options that will make mealtime a breeze, allowing you to focus on what matters most – recovery and bonding with your baby. The best part? All of the postpartum food options included in this post are businesses founded by moms! Oh, and don't forget to forward this to a friend!

Feature image by Raising Love Photo. All meal delivery photos courtesy of each company. This post may include affiliate links which — at no cost to you — would give us a commission should you buy something. This does not affect what we review but helps us get you more discounts. As a reminder, this post is meant for entertainment and educational purposes only and is not medical advice.

Frozen Postpartum Meal Delivery

Think of frozen postpartum meal delivery as a part of postpartum prep— meals can be stored in the freezer while you're still expecting, then reheated to enjoy within a few months. Sending the postpartum meals frozen allows companies to ship meals created specifically for the nutrient needs of a postpartum mother and baby to families all over the U.S. Due to the cost of shipping, most companies offer dried goods like teas, cookies, and pre-packaged snacks, but the below companies are trying to make full meals something every postpartum mom can benefit from.

Mama Meals

About: Organic, gluten-free postpartum meal delivery created to warm the mother, founded by California parents who wish they had the support of warming meals with their first postpartum.

Food: Meals consist of soft, warming foods with just the right amount of spice for postpartum — seasonal soups, congee, and hearty stews, along with teas and cookies. Everything is pre-cooked so you just need to slowly re-heat it on the stove before enjoying. It's absolutely delicious.

Flavors: Mild flavors for you to add your favorite spices and healthy fats or additional proteins to. My favorite items from the delivery were the Creamy Chicken & Rice Congee, Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Lactation Cookies, and Traditional Lentil Stew. The Healing Postpartum Tea is amazing.

Cost: Choose from pantry staples (around $25+ each) or full meal sets of 4 meals ($195) or more all the way up to 18 meals!

Locations: Available Nationwide.

Add-ons: More pantry items like tea, cookies, and collagen can be added to meal orders. As well as more food for additional family members.

Discount: Code np20 saves $20 off your first order of $200+

Order Mama meals

Chiyo

About: Created by moms Irene & Jennifer to use their knowledge as a chef and nutritionist in order to share the healing benefits of traditional postpartum meals to postpartum mothers throughout the U.S.

Food: Delivery consists of snacks, teas, and breakfast lunch, and dinner based on Eastern medicinal practices and the warming period of the first 40 days after giving birth. Each plan comes with support and customized nutritional guidance.

Cost: Postpartum meals start at about $76+ per day or $556+ per week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, depending on zip code.

Flavors: Very flavorful.

Locations: Shipping is available nationwide, with local pick-up areas near NYC, New Jersey, and Connecticut.

Add-ons: Add additional family members to the meal plan.

Discount: Code SHARISTAMPS30 saves $30 off your first order of $125+

Order Chiyo

Spoonful Comfort

About: Founded by Marti Wymer when she couldn't be with her mother as she was undergoing cancer treatment, Spoonful of Comfort was created to offer joy, comfort, and support through warm meals and thoughtful gifts from far away. Put them in the freezer for later or thaw and heat the ones you'd like to eat now.

Food: Pick two or more soups and your favorite cookie flavor for each package. Each package also includes dinner rolls, a special message, and a ladle. I received the New Parent Package during my last-ever postpartum and it was the sweetest gift! Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available too!

Flavors: Enjoy the flavor of homemade soups and add pieces to taste.

Cost: The New Parent Package starts at $99.00 while the Pregnancy Care Package starts at $124.99.

Locations: Available Nationwide.

Add-ons: Blankets, cozy socks, books, gifts, and more food options.

Order Spoonful of Comfort

Splendid Spoon

About: Splendid Spoon was created by Nicole Centeno — a French Culinary Institute-trained chef, former research biologist, and mom of three — to offer plant-based meals full of healthy fats, fiber-rich complex carbs, and protein for people who want to eat healthier without boredom, despite time constraints. “I wanted to increase the nutrition in my diet without sacrificing flavor, and most importantly it had to be easy to fit into my very full life [as a parent],” she shares.

Food: Plant-based smoothies, pasta dishes, meals, and soups shipped to your doorstep.

Flavors: Some of my favorite items were the Chocolate Cherry Smoothie, Dragon Fruit Berry Smoothie, Power Greens Smoothie, Coconut Curry Rice, Naked Burrito Bowl, Kimchi Fried Quinoa, Creamy Mushroom & Spinach Noodles, Red Lentil Dal Soup, and Cauliflower Tikka Soup! Since I don't normally eat plant-based I'd say the soups were my favorite — and so beneficial for postpartum. The flavors are delicious but light so they don't overpower.

Cost: Delivery options start at about $76.93/ week for two smoothies, three soups, one noodle meal, and one dish with the option to get 21 meals a week for close to $175.

Locations: Available Nationwide

Order Splendid Spoon

Fresh Shipped Postpartum Meals

Fresh postpartum meal delivery services are an amazing luxury most new families don't have. But, for those who do, the variety of locally sourced foods and options is simply the best. Keep in mind that ordering fresh local postpartum meal delivery still requires a lot of planning. You may not be stashing your freezer with food just yet, but you will need to reserve your order in advance to ensure you get a slot. If you don't live in an area with a company dedicated to creating postpartum meals, research the doulas in your area and ask if any of them offer a food basket service, or if they cook (and what) as a part of their postpartum support.

Ilana Meals

About: Ilana Meals was created by Ilana Muhlstein, M.S., R.D.N., Dietitian Nutritionist, bestselling author, and mom of three to offer fresh, flavorful foods everyone could enjoy. Along with the delicious meal delivery service, Ilana Meals also offers an online diabetic pregnancy program!

Food: The menu rotates each week and varies by the fresh foods available to the chef in your region but all meals are dairy-free, gluten-free, and focus on high-fiber foods with low net carbs. Healthy fats complement each meal and I have to say they are delicious! Vegan meals are also available.

Flavors: Flavorful and delicious! My favorite meals were the Coconut Pablano Chicken, pistachio-crusted tuna Cakes, Thai basil Chicken, and “Presente” Burrito Bowl.

Cost: Meals cost about $16 each and can be ordered in quantities of 4, 6, 8, 10, or 12. Orders are placed by Thursday and arrive the following Sunday or Wednesday (depending on region).

Locations: Available Nationwide.

Discount: Use code Sheri10 for $10 off your first week of meals (plus another 5% off if you subscribe).

Order Ilana Meals

Fresh Local Postpartum Meal Delivery

Milky Oat

About: Created by Sydney Bliss, a mother, postpartum doula & mother's chef, to “connect mothers with their own nature, self-care, and nutritious food nourishing foods in their kitchens.” One of my favorite things about Milky Oat, aside from their tasty meals and overall vibe, is that all meals come in glass containers with BPA-free lids that they pick back up and reuse, along with their insulated boxes, after thorough sanitization.

Food: Postpartum meal deliveries consist of locally sourced, freshly prepared meals, so the daily menu changes. Meals have an ayurvedic theme with warm, soft foods packed with the protein needed to heal and nourish the postpartum body.

Flavors: Ayuverdic-inspired and full of spices. I really enjoyed the Summer Squash Kitchari, Red Lentil Potato Dal, Chicken Marbella with Jade Rice, Chocolate Almond Butter Cookies (I ate those first haha), and Reishi Tahini Banana Bread. My favorite meal was the Tandoori Cod with Kabocha and chickpeas, though.

Cost: Two-day trial plans start at $195 with one-week plans starting at around $665. You can add a partner to your weekly plan for $425.

Locations: North Bay, East Bay, and SF/Peninsula including San Jose, Palo Alto, and Fremont.

Add-ons: Tinctures, oils, and more!

Discount: Reserve your delivery 30 days in advance and save 10% with code EARLYBIRD.

Order Milky Oat

The post The Best Postpartum Meal Delivery Options for New Parents appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

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The postpartum period is a time of immense change and adjustment, both physically and emotionally. Prioritizing your own well-being and nourishing your body with wholesome and nutritious meals is a vital aspect of this transformative journey. Postpartum meal delivery services offer a convenient and time-saving solution, ensuring that you have access to delicious and nourishing meals without the added stress of meal planning and preparation. By choosing a service that aligns with your dietary preferences and needs, you can optimize your postpartum recovery, support your milk supply, and enhance your overall well-being as you embark on this new chapter of parenthood.

Understanding the Importance of Postpartum Nutrition

The Role of Postpartum Meals in Recovery and Healing

Bringing a new life into the world is an incredible feat, and your body needs time to heal and recover from the physical demands of pregnancy and childbirth. Postpartum meals play a vital role in this healing process, providing your body with the essential nutrients it needs to repair tissues, replenish lost nutrients, and restore energy levels. By nourishing yourself with the right foods, you can support faster recovery and ensure a smooth transition into motherhood.

Nourishing Your Body for Optimal Energy Levels

As a new parent, your energy levels can often feel depleted due to the demands of round-the-clock care for your baby. Proper nutrition becomes even more crucial during this time, as it provides the fuel your body needs to keep up with the physical demands of caring for a newborn. Postpartum meals that are specifically designed to boost energy levels can help you stay energized and ready to tackle the challenges of parenthood.

Supporting Hormonal Balance and Milk Supply

Hormonal fluctuations are a natural part of the postpartum period, and they play a significant role in breastfeeding and overall well-being. Certain postpartum meals are carefully crafted to support hormonal balance, containing ingredients known as galactagogues that may help increase milk supply and quality (*results vary). By nourishing your body with these specific foods, you can ensure that you have an ample supply of breast milk to feed your little one.

Boosting Mood and Emotional Well-being

The postpartum period is often accompanied by a range of emotions, from joy and excitement to feelings of overwhelm and exhaustion. Good nutrition can have a profound impact on your mood and emotional well-being, providing the necessary building blocks for optimal brain function and neurotransmitter production. Postpartum meals that are rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and magnesium can help support a positive mood and mental well-being during this transformative time.

Types of Postpartum Meal Delivery Services

Prepared Entrees: Convenience at Your Fingertips

Prepared entrees are a popular choice for new parents who crave convenience and simplicity. With this type of postpartum meal delivery service, meals are fully cooked and ready to eat, requiring minimal effort on your part. These meals are often delivered in convenient packaging that can be easily reheated in the microwave or oven, allowing you to enjoy a hot, nutritious meal in a matter of minutes. Prepared entrees are a lifesaver for busy parents who want to prioritize nourishing themselves without sacrificing time spent with their little one.

Meal Kits: Embracing Normalcy without the Hassle

If you enjoy the process of cooking and want to maintain a sense of normalcy in your daily routine, meal kits can be an excellent option. With a meal kit delivery service, you'll receive pre-portioned ingredients and detailed recipes that guide you through the cooking process. This allows you to prepare homemade meals without the hassle of meal planning and grocery shopping. Meal kits are a fantastic way to explore new recipes, try different cooking techniques, and have a hand in creating delicious and nutritious meals for you and your family.

Customized and Allergy-Free Options: Catering to Your Unique Needs

Every new parent has their own dietary preferences, restrictions, and allergies. That's why many postpartum meal delivery services offer customized and allergy-free options. These services allow you to personalize your meal selections based on factors such as your Ayurvedic dosha, diet style, intolerances, and allergies. By choosing a customized option, you can ensure that your meals perfectly align with your specific dietary needs, providing you with peace of mind and a pleasant dining experience.

Organic and Locally-Sourced Ingredients: A Focus on Quality and Sustainability

For those who prioritize organic and locally sourced ingredients, many postpartum meal delivery services offer options that meet these criteria. These services source only organic ingredients and prepare meals made with locally sourced produce and sustainably raised proteins. By choosing an organic meal delivery service, you can rest assured that you're nourishing your body with high-quality, pesticide-free ingredients, while also supporting local farmers and sustainable agricultural practices.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Postpartum Meal Delivery Service

Dietary Restrictions and Allergies: Ensuring a Safe and Enjoyable Experience

When selecting a postpartum meal delivery service, it's essential to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies you may have. Whether you follow a specific diet style, such as vegan or gluten-free, or have allergies to certain ingredients, it's crucial to choose a service that can accommodate your needs. Look for meal delivery services that clearly label their menu items with dietary information, and don't hesitate to reach out to their customer service team if you have any questions or concerns.

Ayurvedic and Chinese Medicinal Foods: Harnessing Ancient Wisdom

Ayurveda and Chinese medicine offer centuries-old wisdom when it comes to postpartum nutrition. These holistic approaches recognize the unique needs of new mothers and provide guidance on the types of foods that can support healing, hormone balance, and overall well-being during the postpartum period. If you're interested in incorporating Ayurvedic or Chinese medicinal foods into your postpartum meals, look for meal delivery services that offer options infused with these traditional practices.

Soft Foods for Postpartum Recovery: Gentle on Your Digestive System

The postpartum period is a time of healing and recovery for your body, and certain foods can support this process more effectively than others. Soft foods, such as soups, stews, and porridges, are often recommended during this time as they are gentle on the digestive system and easy to digest. These types of foods can also improve nutrient absorption and provide a comforting sensation, which can be particularly beneficial for new parents who may experience digestive discomfort or have specific dietary needs.

First 40 Days Foods: Honoring Traditional Practices

In many cultures, there is a tradition known as the “first 40 days” or “confinement period” following childbirth. During this time, new mothers are encouraged to rest, recover, and focus on their own well-being. Traditional postpartum meals during this period often emphasize warming and nourishing foods that promote healing and rejuvenation. If you're interested in following these traditional practices, look for postpartum meal delivery services that offer “the first 40 days” food options.

Family Meal Options: Feeding the Whole Household

Mealtime can be a challenge for new parents, especially when you have to consider the dietary preferences and needs of your entire family. Many postpartum meal delivery services offer family meal options, allowing you to order meals that cater to the tastes and preferences of both parents and older siblings. By choosing a service that offers family-friendly meals, you can simplify meal planning and ensure that everyone in your household is well-fed and satisfied.

The Benefits of Postpartum Meal Delivery Services

Time-Saving Convenience: More Moments with Your Baby

As a new parent, time is a precious commodity. Between feedings, diaper changes, and soothing your little one, finding time to prepare nutritious meals can be a challenge. Postpartum meal delivery services eliminate the need to plan, shop, and cook, allowing you to spend more precious moments bonding with your baby. With ready-to-eat meals or pre-portioned ingredients, you can enjoy delicious and nourishing food without sacrificing quality time with your little one.

Nutritionally Balanced Meals: Fueling Your Body for the Demands of Parenthood

Proper nutrition is essential for your overall well-being, especially during the postpartum period when your body is recovering from childbirth and adjusting to the demands of breastfeeding. Postpartum meal delivery services take the guesswork out of meal planning and ensure that you're getting all the necessary nutrients your body needs. These services often provide nutritionally balanced meals that are designed to support your physical recovery, energy levels, hormonal balance, milk supply, and mood.

Increased Milk Supply: Supporting Breastfeeding Success

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish your baby, but it can come with its' own set of challenges. So many postpartum meal delivery services offer meals that are specifically designed to support lactation and increase milk supply. These meals often contain galactagogues, which are ingredients known to stimulate milk production. By incorporating these foods into your postpartum diet, you can help ensure a healthy and abundant milk supply for your little one.

Speeding up Recovery and Healing: Essential Nutrients and Galactagogues

The postpartum period is a critical time for your body to heal and recover. Postpartum meal delivery services can provide you with the essential nutrients your body needs for this healing process. These meals are often packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and boost immune function. Additionally, specific postpartum meals may include galactagogues, such as oats, flax seeds, and fenugreek, which can help speed up healing and promote a healthy milk supply.

Promoting Healthy Metabolism and Hormonal Balance: Ayurvedic Principles at Work

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, offers valuable insights into postpartum nutrition. Ayurvedic principles emphasize the importance of balancing the body's doshas, or energies, to promote overall well-being. Many postpartum meal delivery services incorporate Ayurvedic principles into their meal plans, using ingredients and cooking techniques that support healthy metabolism and hormonal balance. By nourishing your body with these Ayurvedic-inspired meals, you can optimize your postpartum recovery and enhance your overall health.

How Postpartum Meal Delivery Works

Ordering Process: Simple and User-Friendly

Ordering postpartum meals from a delivery service is typically a straightforward and user-friendly process. Most meal delivery services have an online platform where you can browse their menu, select your desired meals, and customize your order based on your dietary preferences and needs. Once you've made your selections, you'll proceed to the checkout process, where you'll provide your delivery address and payment information. Some services also offer the option to schedule recurring deliveries, ensuring that you have a steady supply of nourishing meals during the postpartum period.

Delivery Options: Nationwide and Compostable Packaging

Postpartum meal delivery services often offer nationwide delivery, allowing you to access their services regardless of your location. When it comes to packaging, many services prioritize sustainability and eco-friendliness. They use compostable containers made from materials like plant-based plastics or recycled paper. This commitment to environmentally-conscious packaging ensures that you can enjoy your meals guilt-free, knowing that you're minimizing your impact on the planet.

Meal Bundles: Pregnancy and Postpartum Options

Postpartum meal delivery services typically offer a variety of meal bundles to choose from, catering to different stages of your journey as a new parent. Pregnancy meal bundles are designed to nourish you and your growing baby, providing essential nutrients and supporting overall well-being. These bundles can also help ease common pregnancy discomforts like nausea and digestive issues. Postpartum meal bundles, on the other hand, focus on increasing milk supply, speeding up healing, and supporting your body's recovery during the “fourth trimester.” These bundles often include galactagogues and nutrient-dense ingredients to promote optimal healing and wellness.

Customization and Personalization: Tailoring Meals to Your Needs

Many postpartum meal delivery services understand that every new parent has unique dietary preferences and needs. That's why they offer customization options, allowing you to tailor your meals to your specific requirements. Whether you're following a specific diet style, have food intolerances or allergies, or simply have personal preferences, you can often customize your meals to ensure they align with your needs. From gluten-free and vegan options to avoiding specific ingredients, customization allows you to create a meal plan that suits your individual tastes and requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Postpartum Meal Delivery

Addressing Common Concerns and Queries

1. How do postpartum meal delivery services accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies? Many postpartum meal delivery services offer customization options, allowing you to select meals that align with your dietary restrictions and allergies. They typically provide clear labeling and detailed information about ingredients, making it easier for you to choose meals that suit your specific needs.
2. Are postpartum meal delivery services suitable for Ayurvedic or Chinese medicinal diets? Yes, there are postpartum meal delivery services that incorporate Ayurvedic and Chinese medicinal principles into their meal plans. These services provide meals that are designed to support healing, hormone balance, and overall well-being based on these traditional practices.
3. What are the benefits of soft foods for postpartum recovery? Soft foods, such as soups, stews, and porridges, are gentle on the digestive system and easy to digest. They can help improve nutrient absorption and provide a comforting sensation, which can be particularly beneficial for new parents who may experience digestive discomfort or have specific dietary needs.
4. Is there a specific postpartum meal delivery service for the “first 40 days”? Yes, some postpartum meal delivery services offer options specifically tailored to the “first 40 days” or “confinement period” following childbirth. These services provide meals that prioritize warming and nourishing foods traditionally associated with this period of postpartum recovery.
5. Can postpartum meal delivery services accommodate the dietary needs of the whole family? Many postpartum meal delivery services offer family meal options, allowing you to order meals that cater to the tastes and preferences of both parents and older siblings. This can simplify meal planning and ensure that everyone in your household is well-fed and satisfied.

These frequently asked questions address common concerns and queries that new parents may have when considering postpartum meal delivery services. By providing clear and informative answers, we aim to help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs and preferences.

Additional Resources for New Parents

Books, Podcasts, and Websites to Support Your Postpartum Journey

Parenthood is a journey filled with learning and growth, and there are many resources available to support you along the way. Whether you're looking for expert advice, personal stories, or practical tips, these books, podcasts, and websites can provide valuable insights and guidance during your postpartum journey. Some recommended resources include:

• Book: “The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality” by Kimberly Ann Johnson
• Podcast: “The Birth Hour” hosted by Bryn Huntpalmer
• Website: “Postpartum Support International” (postpartum.net)
• Book: “The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother” by Heng Ou
• Podcast: “The Longest Shortest Time” hosted by Hillary Frank
• Website: “Postpartum Progress” (postpartumprogress.com)

These resources offer a wealth of information and support for new parents, covering topics such as postpartum recovery, emotional well-being, breastfeeding, and much more. They can serve as valuable companions on your postpartum journey, providing reassurance and guidance when you need it most.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Postpartum Meal Delivery for New Parents appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

If you're looking for a new way to bond as a family this Halloween, you have got to check out these clever family Halloween costumes! Finding the right Halloween costume for everyone in the family isn't always as simple as it seems, which is why picking out themed costumes that work well together can be a parent's dream! “Where's Tabitha?” “Oh that's right she matches me and is over there!” Click through for some super clever family Halloween costumes that will have you winning Halloween at any shindig or trick-or-treat spot you grace with your family's presence. That's right, you can finally dress up again— Have fun with it!

Wonderland Family

As Wonderous as it is, there's something a bit eerie about Wonderland, too. The mysterious and oddball characters definitely make for great Halloween costumes! “I knew this costume before last year's Halloween even happened — Twin boys would make [a] perfect Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum!” shares Melanie of Loft 3 Photography. And if you don't want to be the Red Queen yourself, you can dress the dog up in this Alice in Wonderland Red Queen Costume!

Whoville Family Halloween Costume

When you love Christmas as much as the Whos in Whoville, the Grinch stealing Christmas could be the scariest sight on Halloween! Throw in a Thing 1 and a few Whos and you have a Whoville family! Bonus points if you also have a dog with an antler headband. This super creative family costume is by Lynzy of Lynzy & Co.!

Frida Kahlo Family Costume

Have you got a budding artist on your hands? Why not have her be one for Halloween? Jessie of Hello My Love shares that though she planned on her 2-year-old daughter being Frida Kahlo for Halloween she wasn't originally part of the costume: “I was a very last-minute addition. We were going to a friend’s neighborhood to trick-or-treat and Chris wanted to wear an old skeleton costume so I had to think fast . . . oh, I can be Frida’s self-portrait!” It kinda makes the whole thing better with mom in it, though, right?

Need more costume Ideas? ->> CLICK <<–

Willy Wonka Family

Complete with cotton candy, a Wonka Bar, and Oompa Loompa this Johnny Depp version of Willy Wonka has something for everyone. It's so interesting reading how Melanie of Loft 3 Photography did it all, too (and her humor is fantastic). You can even dress your dog up in a Willy Wonka pet costume for Halloween to match!

Game of Thrones Family Halloween Costume

Abigail of Baby Bird's Farm shares this super cute mama and kiddos' mother of dragons Game of Thrones family Halloween costume option in her online roundup of cute costume pairings. It definitely feels like we're wrangling dragons sometimes, right moms? This Mother of Dragons (Daenerys Targaryen) costume isn't an outfit that would feel too awkward for moms to wear and what kid wouldn't have a blast being a dragon? (Shop baby dragon capes here.)

Animal Farm Family

Got a bunch of wild animals roaming around your house? Check out this post for the perfect family costume theme (especially if the mom is pregnant) from Melanie of Loft 3 Photography.

The Addams Family

This has to be one of my all-time favorite family costumes — The Addams Family! This family is all about all things creepy and the costumes aren't too hard to try to throw together yourself if you don't buy them in the store. Besides, chockers are back, right? Another great one from Melanie of Loft 3 Photography.

The Mouse Family Halloween Costume

How adorable is this mama-son costume idea from Nikki of Mommy My Way? Mickey and Minnie are the perfect pair, and we all know most toddlers are totally on board with anything Mickey Mouse, right?

I have a ninth family costume not included in this post, too! Love Labyrinth? Check out this family's Labyrinth family Halloween costumes here!

For more family-friendly Halloween fun, check out these Halloween posts:

Toddler-Friendly Eerie Halloween Porch Decorations

20 Halloween Candy Alternatives

7 Halloween Activities For the Non Trick-or-Treater

The post 8 Clever Family Halloween Costumes You’ll Want to Try This Year appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

As a parent, you want the best for your baby while also being mindful of the environment. That's where cloth diapering comes in. Not only is it a sustainable option, but it's also easy on your baby's sensitive skin. But where do you start? What do you need for cloth diapers? What are the essential items you need to make cloth diapering a success? In this article, we'll guide you through the top must-have cloth diapering essentials for sustainable baby care to equip you with the information you need to make sustainable and eco-friendly choices for your baby. So, let's dive in and discover the cloth diapering must-haves!

Navigating Parenthood uses affiliate links in posts which allows us to make a small commission (at no cost to you) if you decide to purchase via any of our links. This helps support the costs of running this website —thank you!

Why choose cloth diapers over disposable diapers?

When it comes to choosing between cloth diapers and disposable diapers, there are several factors to consider. While disposable diapers may seem convenient, they have a significant impact on the environment as the third largest product in landfills — one that can take up to 500 years to decompose. That's a staggering amount considering that it takes hundreds of years for a disposable diaper to decompose.

Cloth diapers, on the other hand, can be reused multiple times, last from ages 0-2, and can even be re-sold when your child has outgrown the use of diapers — making them a much more eco-friendly choice. By opting for cloth diapers, you can significantly reduce your household waste and bills while contributing to a healthier planet for your family's future.

Cloth Diapering Myths

Before diving into the various types of cloth diapers, it's important to address some common misconceptions surrounding cloth diapering. One myth is that cloth diapers are bulky and uncomfortable for babies. However, modern cloth diapers have come a long way in terms of design and functionality. Many cloth diapers are now trim-fitting and offer adjustable sizing to ensure a comfortable fit for your little one. Some people also say that washing cloth diapers uses just as many resources as disposable diapers but Esembly Baby Diapers‘ founder, Liz Turrigiano, has actually tested the energy and water usage for washing cloth diapers and says it's equivalent to running the dishwasher. Besides — most of the diapers can go in the wash with the rest of your baby's clothes.

Another myth is that cloth diapers are difficult to use and require a lot of extra work. While it's true that cloth diapers require more effort than disposables, they are not as daunting as they may seem. With proper preparation and a good routine, cloth diapering can be a seamless part of your baby care routine. One of the biggest myths? That it's all or nothing. Cloth diapering can be done just at home, just overnight, just once a day, or used all the time — it's up to you! Even just using a cloth/reusable diaper instead of a disposable swim diaper will make a huge impact on the planet and your wallet.

Choosing a cloth diaper

Selecting your cloth diapers may take some time and research. There are many styles to choose from, but try a few different styles that seem appealing to you and then invest in an entire “stash.” Opt for organic cloth diaper inserts (Amazon affiliate) for the material against your baby's skin. A great way to try different styles is to find a local cloth diapering group and purchase diapers second-hand. You can easily do a deep cleaning and sun-dry if you are concerned about using something that's been used already. Facebook cloth diaper buy-and-sell groups are popular options for buying, selling, and trading cloth diapers.

Wet bags or pail liner

A container to store the dirty diapers until it’s time for diaper laundry is a must. Some people prefer a trash can or plastic hamper with a pail liner inside, but you may choose to use a wet bag at home or when you go out. Whether you choose a large wet bag or a pail liner, they should have a PUL (a laminated fabric that makes diapers waterproof) layer to prevent leaks.

Cloth-diaper-safe detergent

Don’t use just any detergent to wash your cloth diapers. If you have invested in good diapers, don’t skimp on the detergent! Make sure you purchase a detergent that is cloth diaper-safe to avoid buildup and stinks. Regular detergents contain fabric softeners, whiteners, fragrances, and bleach. These detergent ingredients will cause build-up on the diapers and will lead to repelling, leaks, and stinky diapers. Washing every other day, putting them up on the line to dry (in the sun when possible to get rid of stains and any bacteria), and then placing them in the dryer for a few minutes on low heat to fluff them up before putting them in drawers is a great option.

Cloth-diaper-safe creams and liners

Same as the detergent, make sure you get a bottom cream suitable to use with cloth diapers. Traditional creams will adhere to the inner fabric of the diapers and may clog the fibers of the fabric, leaving behind a residue layer even after washing. Try something like Noleo 3-in-1 Organic Diaper Cream or Motherlove Diaper Balm (I LOVE their natural products and code NP15 saves you 15% off!). If you have to use a regular diaper rash ointment for an extreme situation, use a thick liner to avoid the ointment getting on the diaper. If you get some on your diaper accidentally, use a degreasing detergent and scrub, scrub, scrub, then rinse, rinse, rinse.

Cloth wipes

Cloth wipes are a practical and cost-effective way to go, especially if you are already doing diaper laundry! Cut up receiving blankets, washcloths, and cotton velour wipes. They all do the same job, but some parents prefer certain fabrics over others. The size of the wipes can also be a deciding factor when choosing your fabric. You can carry moist wipes in your diaper bag or carry dry wipes along with a small spray bottle and spray/wipe as needed.

Diaper sprayer

Some people consider a diaper sprayer (Amazon affiliate) a luxury until they find themselves trying to dump a big mess in the toilet. Many cloth diapering companies manufacture their own sprayers and some hardware stores sell “kits” intended to install them in the bathroom. A long shower hose can work as well. Some cloth diapering experts prefer to dump the excess BM in the toilet and then use a laundry room sink as a prewash before a separate laundry cycle. You'll find your own rhythm.

What are your cloth diapering essentials? Have you tried these? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Sources:

1. C. Lehrburger. 1988. Diapers in the waste stream. A review of waste management and public policy issues.
2. J. Meseldzija, D. Poznanovic, R. Frank. 2013. Assessment of the different environmental impacts between reusable and disposable diapers.
3. PRNewswire. 2016. Disposable diapers add millions of tons of waste to landfills each year, according to an EPA report. 
4. Parenting Mode. Diaper Facts and Statistics in 2023 (Latest U.S. Data)

The post Cloth Diapering Essentials: Must-Have Items for a Sustainable Baby Care appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

Setting up a nursery room can be an exciting yet overwhelming task for new parents. With so many options and opinions out there, it's important to know the essential nursery room do's and don'ts to create a safe and comforting space for your little one — things that aren't usually shared. Creating a nursery room that is practical, functional, and aesthetically pleasing is the key to ensuring your baby's comfort and well-being. By following these do's and don'ts, you will be able to create a nurturing environment that promotes good sleep, healthy development, and happy moments with your little bundle of joy.

Get ready to transform your nursery room — or space within your own room, wherever your little one may sleep — into a haven for your baby with our essential tips and advice. Let's dive in!

This post was originally published on 7/11/2016. Not everyone has the space to make a dedicated nursery room, so this post is also about nursery areas, wherever that might be in your home.

Do paint ahead of time

No one wants to be inhaling paint while trying to soothe an upset newborn, so it's important to not only paint the room ahead of time but use zero-VOC paint with calming colors. Most paints off-gas even years after painting but paints free of volatile organic compounds won't. In fact, they even smell better while painting! Be sure the paint is really zero-VOC, though, because some paints claim zero-VOC, but that's before adding the pigment for the color. I ordered all of my zero-VOC paint from Paints. Local eco-friendly home stores also offer zero-VOC paints.

Don't put loose items above the crib

Decorating a nursery room with loose items above the crib is a common mistake in a lot of the pretty nursery pictures I've seen online. Not only will your kiddo try to grab the objects above them, but if there's ever an earthquake, all those sharp cutesy decorations on the geometric wooden shelf are going to fall on him. Opt for decorating the wall with fun painted patterns, and decals, or with flat well-mounted letters instead. Think about other ways you may need to baby-proof the room (and your whole house) in a way that keeps your little one safe without making the whole house a “No” space that's sectioned off.

Do hold off on the crib

Most people use bassinets or cribs so I thought I'd use both with my kids too. I never used them… well, except to hold my clean laundry. The U.S. media tends to focus on buying a crib and putting it together in a nursery “for the baby” but you might not use that crib for at least a month (if ever). Most bassinets last the first few months and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies room share with their caregivers for the first year. I ended up co-sleeping with my kiddos — the first because of reflux (and we didn't have a separate room for her) and the rest of the babies as a matter of choice since I also breastfed them. Their rooms have been used as a space for toys, clothes, diaper changes, and future beds. Save your money and buy a sidecar sort of arrangement that can turn into a crib later, or just wait on the crib until you know for sure your baby will sleep in one. Not everything needs to be bought at once and before your baby is home.

Don't wash all the clothes yet

You'll also want to wait on washing all the baby clothes you have ahead of time so you can return the ones you end up not using for store credit. Wash about four Newborn and six 0-6 months outfits then leave the rest with tags intact. Babies typically outgrow or skip a size fairly quickly so it's best to wait and see whether or not you'll need more of a certain size before taking the tags off. Babies also get all kinds of things on their outfits — You know, like poop — so you'll probably end up washing an outfit then grabbing it from the clean clothes hamper for baby to wear again more often than reaching for a new outfit from the closet. Keep in mind the weather, too. You might have several long-sleeve onesies in sizes 3-6 months and it will be extremely warm weather by the time your baby fits in them. You'll want to return or regift those.

Tip: Organize your baby's clothes by size (with tags on) so that you can see what you have in each of the sizes. Using clothing dividers makes this a lot easier — Check out our free printable for some mountain-themed baby clothing organizers. here!

Do incorporate sensory elements

Creating a stimulating and engaging environment is important for your baby's development. Incorporating sensory elements into the room can help promote their cognitive and physical development. Consider adding a mirror on the wall in their room to provide visual stimulation — something like a toddler-height Montessori mirror is great for tummy time and learning facial expressions with parents. Soft toys and textured teethers provide tactile stimulation, while music and white noise machines can provide auditory stimulation.

You can also decorate the room with removable art that is high contrast for the early months and then slowly more colorful later on — visually interesting items that are also useful such as nursery room area rugs and curtains are great visual tools, too. You could also use an essential oils diffuser to provide a calming and relaxing scent.

Don't waste your money on a changing table

I bought a dedicated changing table for my oldest daughter when she was a baby that I thought would be perfect as a dresser or something for her later as she got older . . . but it had a permanent changing portion attached so it just didn't work out the way I thought it would. Choosing to use a sturdy removable changing station that you can rest on top of a long dresser is best for saving space and money. Honestly, I did a bulk of the diaper changes on my lap out at a restaurant (no changing table in the bathroom), in her stroller while out, or on the floor. You're not going to want to turn your back on the kiddo while changing her diaper anyway, so this slimmer option is safe and so much more versatile.

Do stick to essentials

Keep the nursery room simple — Items baby needs and items you need for feeding/changing baby. This means no extra gadgets and especially no computers or TVs if you can help it (our electronics emit a bit of radiation that newborns just don't need). Be sure to have a soothing music player/toy, a chair for feeding or rocking, and enough space for all the diapers and clothes. The layout of the baby's space should be open enough for you to easily move in and out of the space — a functional and organized layout.

Have some do's and don'ts to add to the list? Please share them in the comments below!

The post 7 Essential Nursery Room Do’s & Don’ts appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

Father's Day isn't just about dads who've been parenting for a while, it's a time for parents-to-be to celebrate their future to come, and for expecting dads to get some support. If you have a dad-to-be in your life, this is the perfect opportunity for sage advice through some thought-out gifts. Keep scrolling to see some super sweet Father's Day gifts for the expecting dad in your life.

This post contains affiliate links, which means that — at no cost to you — we may earn a small commission on any purchases you make from the recommendations we share. This helps keep our website running so that we can offer you free content and resources! All items have been reviewed to ensure a fit, we won't recommend something if it doesn't pass our testing.

The Nook

Save the new or expecting dad in your life from the mental load of grocery shopping on two hours of sleep by gifting Lettuce Grow's Nook system! The Nook was made for easy-to-manage indoor plant growth, making it the best way to ensure new parents enjoy fresh, nourishing foods for years to come. The best part is you can get 20 free seedlings, an indoor mat, and a PH pen in your Nook kit while Lettuce Grow has their pre-order special!

Order Your Nook

Serving board

Help make postpartum snacking easier with the gift of a gorgeous Lynn & Liana Acacia hardwood cheese board! With a variety of shapes and eco-friendly epoxy designs, you're sure to find the perfect board for any new parent.

Order cheese board

Baby class

Gift the expecting dad in your life the opportunity to learn how to understand their baby, ways to play with their little one, and something that will deepen their bond with their little, too — infant massage class, Navigating Nurturing Touch is the perfect on-demand virtual infant massage course to gift this Father's Day.

Enroll Now

Baby carrier

Skin-to-skin is so important in the first 40 days after birth, and what better way to do that than with a carrier? Colugo's baby carrier is fully adjustable to accommodate babywearing from newborn to 33 pounds. and comes with an SPF 50+ protective head cover plus ample space for keys and a diaper or two.

Order Now

The post Sweet Father’s Day Gifts for the Expecting Dad appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

Taking the step to become a dad is tremendous — it means you not only love someone enough to be totally connected with them for the rest of your lives but that you're ready to care for a little being together. It's said that when you have a child it's like sharing your heart with the world, having it exist outside yourself, and tending to this vulnerable part of you with someone you hold close — and it's totally true. But before you leap into the world of parenting with fantasies about what it's going to be like and thinking all you need is the baby gear on some list, there are a few other things you need to know so you can be better prepared for this amazing step in your life. Save this page, share this post, read it over then read it again. These insider tips about what moms wish dads knew are learned after becoming a parent and not typically written about, but you're getting the info beforehand — use it wisely, young Padawan.

1. How You Share Responsibility Affects Your Sex Life

More couples struggle with this one after becoming parents than you know. The dad wonders why his wife is being “frigid” and the mom simply feels touched out and helpless. Once you become a parent everything shifts — including your sex life. Not only does it take time to heal from having a baby, but if you push sex too soon, don't help enough with things like diaper changes and feedings, or don't offer emotional support it all will affect your sex life. It doesn't matter if you're the moneymaker or you both work — if you don't give the other parent a break by taking over with the kids and doing some household chores (or simply not leaving your dishes out in the first place) then don't expect sex.

It's extremely difficult to navigate a sense of self after having a baby (even years later), so figuring out when mommy ends and sex kitten starts isn't easy. Without some time to themselves, your partner can't get out of mommy mode — which means she's thinking about sore nipples, the next feeding, the poop on her shirt, and someday getting some sleep . . . not sex. How you interact with your kids also plays a part: If you're a caring dad it will make the relationship with your spouse a lot stronger. There are some great book recommendations on our Amazon Storefront Book List that can help prepare your relationship for this shift before baby arrives and I also offer more information in my virtual postpartum planning consultations.

2. Vacations Will Never Be The Same

When you become a new parent there isn't normally enough money or time for a vacation. That or the destinations you'd like to go to aren't appropriate for your baby until she gets a lot older. Though kids under 3 are free at Disneyland, it isn't always fun taking turns on the rides and going them alone. Vacations get a bit more expensive, include a lot more people (extended family is a must if you want alone time), and simply aren't the same for years to come because spending an extra $2,000 for your toddler's plane ticket so the family can go to Hawaii where you basically just end up going to the zoo doesn't seem feasible when you have a local zoo a few miles away. You'll also need to consider your baby's care needs and development — newborns need to be held close those first 40 days and a lot of tummy time for development with limited time in a “container.” Your partner will also need ample time to rest and heal since the first 40 days after birth is said to set the stage for their health for the next 40 years.

3. The Parenting World Is Far From Equal

Ashton Kutcher became aware that parenting is unequal when realizing that men's restrooms at places like Costco and Target don't have changing tables. (Though not all women's bathrooms have them either. Some places have a Family Restroom, while others have nothing and you just have to use the stroller or a booth.) Women are still thought of as the caretakers, while men are the money-makers.

But that isn't true anymore! There are plenty of great stay-at-home dads, as well as families where both parents work (and hopefully each parent is taking turns with kiddo duty). One major indicator of the bias? When a dad does something ordinary that any mom might do several times a day with their kiddo and it's seen as amazing. Example: I once gave my husband a Little Mermaid backpack to wear while waiting in line at Disneyland and within seconds people took notice and fawned over him for being an above-and-beyond dad. I wore that thing and carried our daughter all day without a word from anyone, but he's amazing for wearing it all of 10 minutes.

It's honestly a bit sad. It shows just how distant fathers used to be decades and decades ago, and how we still think they are. When a father is loving and a supportive co-parent, hearts start to flutter like they're watching a fairytale. Men Do Babywear: 6 Dads Share Their Journey is my all-time top article on Navigating Parenthood because of these biases. Women want to show their partners that they can try babywearing because other men have, and also like to see dads making an impact in their children's lives. This is something you really need to be aware of before you become a dad so that you understand that there will be more hurdles for you as you try to be a supportive parent —be one anyway!— but also because you shouldn't let this shower of praise get to your head. Everyone needs encouragement and that includes your partner.

4. Becoming a Parent Instantly Ages You

OK so not all parents instantly get a bit wiser and feel older, there are still the select few who go out clubbing a week after giving birth and leave the baby with the grandparents. Yea . . . but I'd like to think that the majority of parents are sticking with their newborn or toddler most of the time, which means no matter how much you'd like to stay up for that 10 p.m. program it's likely you'll already be passed out when it airs. Kids are tiring. There's nothing like being a parent, but man it is tiring.

For myself (and several parents I've spoken to) there was also a change in life perspective after becoming a parent. I stopped drinking soda and binge eating processed candy (I have weak moments, and I'm not sugar-free or anything, but I try) then became aware of things like GMOs and radiation from digital devices. How I viewed my relationships with people and responded to situations changed, too. The changes in your life after becoming a parent really vary by the person and this isn't a negative thing at all — it's a necessity and shows you're growing to be the person your child needs to shape who they become in life.

5. Favorites Come And Go In Phases

It's fantastic to be excited about becoming a parent and having a little one to show the world to and bond over whatever with, but be aware that there are two parents. Add your partner to your fantasy about your soon-to-be BFF because both boys and girls go through phases where they are all about mommy or all about daddy for an extended period of time (it could be a month or years) then all of a sudden change their mind. Remember that your time will come and that when your child changes their favorite it's going to be super sad for the parent who used to feel like they were the closest to the child.

Avoid any competition with your partner about who is the favorite by agreeing to include one another no matter who the child says is their favorite at that time. Be aware that this changes, and that as your child gets into the toddler years he'll test boundaries by asking one parent something and then asking the other the same question if he knows they'll give the answer he wants (this is a learning age for the teen years). Make sure you have a united front and don't compete with your partner. Your kiddo loves you both.

6. Prepare For The Unexpected

Though just six tips don't really cover everything (I'll need to add Parts 2-30 later), the last part of this list is pretty important. As you journey into parenthood, understand that nothing ever goes as planned and you should expect the unexpected. Sometimes moms experience severe depression after giving birth and it could take years before she feels like herself again. Giving birth can affect a mom's sex drive, emotions — everything — but it changes a lot for dads, too. Birth plans are so great to have, but they usually get thrown out the window when it's finally time to give birth because of one thing or another that happens. Roll with it, be supportive of one another, and know that even if you both wanted a natural birth it's OK if it isn't as long as you deliver the baby safely and get to hold her in your arms.

There's no being prepared for the unthinkable — a miscarriage, stillbirth, or death of mom while giving birth — but these are also realities that arise once you've decided to take the leap into parenthood, so the one thing you can be prepared for in this journey of the unexpected is to be an emotional support for your partner, and them for you. Talk about possible outcomes and situations that may arise with getting pregnant and becoming parents. It's a tough discussion, and the unknown is pretty scary, but you'll be glad it was addressed ahead of time if something ever comes up. And understand that everything you talked about before having the baby may change once you bring the baby home! Check-in with each other again, and make a weekly meeting of it.

What would you add to this list? Share in the comments below!

This post was originally published here on 4/28/15.

The post 6 Things You Need to Know Before Becoming a Dad appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

Spring is here, and what better way to celebrate the season than with our free download of floral Spring photo cards? As a semi-crunchy mom of 5 and postpartum educator and doula, I understand the importance of capturing pregnancy and baby milestones, and these photo cards are a perfect way to do just that. In this post, I'm sharing some ideas for using our floral Spring photo cards for pregnancy and monthly baby updates, plus you'll get the free download!

Pregnancy update Spring photo cards

Belly progression photos

Use our floral Spring photo cards to track your belly progression throughout your pregnancy. Place the card next to your belly in each photo to show how your belly is growing.

Announcement photos

Use our floral Spring photo cards to make a pregnancy announcement or gender reveal announcement. Hold the card in your hands or place it next to a sonogram photo for a cute and creative way to share the news.

Baby shower invitations

Use our floral Spring photo cards as part of your baby shower invitations. Take a photo holding the card and include it in the invitation for a personal touch.

Monthly baby update Spring photo cards

Milestone photos

Use our floral spring photo cards to capture your baby's monthly milestones. Place the card next to your baby in each photo to show their age and the milestone they reached!

Seasonal Photos

Use our floral spring photo cards to capture seasonal photos of your baby. Use props like flowers or springtime decorations to create a festive and fun atmosphere.

Social media updates

Use our floral spring photo cards to share monthly updates of your baby on social media. Take a photo of your baby with the card and share it with your followers to keep them up-to-date on your baby's growth and development.

Download the floral Spring photo cards

I made some monthly seasonal-themed week-by-week bump cards during my pregnancy with River but I wanted to create different photo cards that you can use to showcase weeks or months as well as both pregnancy updates and your baby's growth. To allow for versatile use, these numbered Spring photo cards don't have “weeks” or “months” written under the numbers so you can use them however you'd like!

Floral Spring photo card printing directions

1. Fill out the form below to join our newsletters and you'll be sent to the PDf link for the floral pregnancy milestone cards downloadable/printable PDF.
2. Download the file.
3. Place medium-weight cardstock in white or a light cream (or simply just quality paper).
4. Choose which page you'd like to print based on your baby's age (if taking the baby's first-year update photos) or your stage in pregnancy (for pregnancy bump updates). These cannot be printed double-sided.
5. After printing, let the ink dry a few minutes then cut to your liking. In previous week-by-week photos, I cut my cards to have the classic card shape (though I also designed the wreaths to be cut this way, too). This time, I made the cards different and decided to cut closer to the wreath outline for a round photo card. But this new design allows you to decide how you'd like to cut your own cards.
6. Enjoy! Take photos and tag @NavigatingParenthood on social media so I can see your pics!

Find more pregnancy cards, door hangers, birth plan templates and more at the Navigating Parenthood Etsy Shop!

Sources:

• “Spring Inspired Pregnancy Photo Ideas” from The Bump: https://www.thebump.com/a/spring-pregnancy-photo-ideas
• “20 Spring Baby Photo Ideas” from Mom Loves Best: https://momlovesbest.com/baby-photo-ideas-spring
• “Spring Baby Milestone Cards” from Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/market/spring_baby_milestone_cards

The post Floral Spring Pregnancy Photo Card appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

As a new parent, you want to create a safe and healthy nursery room environment for your baby, after all, they may spend 12-18 hours a day in their room while sleeping and little bodies can't handle toxic loads the way adults can. But, you also want to be mindful of your impact on the environment. Fortunately, creating a green nursery doesn't have to be expensive. keep reading for 8 eco-friendly nursery ideas that are good for your baby, the planet, and your wallet.

This post contains information that is meant to be educational and helpful, it is not medical advice and does not replace the aid of a medical professional. Navigating Parenthood uses affiliate links in posts which allows us to make a small commission (at no cost to you) if you decide to purchase via any of our links. This helps support the costs of running this website —thank you!

1. Clean the air

If safe to do so (no one is smoking outside and there isn't construction or heavy freeway traffic nearby), open your windows daily to allow fresh air into the bedroom. Studies have shown that indoor air is actually more toxic than the air outside and that things take longer to break down indoors, meaning harmful toxins linger longer. Add an air purifier like Air Doctor to the baby's nursery room and other rooms in your home to reduce allergens, bacteria, and VOCs (volatile organic compounds). The addition of safe air-purifying plants is also really beneficial for further detoxifying the air in your home.

2. Take off your shoes

According to the EPA, studies have shown that taking off your shoes reduces the amount of lead dust in your home by 60 percent! Not only that but think of all the herbicides and everything else on our shoes. People often think that if they don't see mud or dirt on the bottom of a shoe then their shoe must be clean, but one study found that the outside of a shoe carries an average of 421,000 units of bacteria — bleh! Be safe and start a new home policy of taking your shoes off outside or at the front door to create a safer, greener home.

3. Sunbathe items

Like shoes, things like furniture, toys, bouncers, and swings can introduce some new hazards to the home — whether second-hand or new. Have the items spend some time outside in direct sunlight to off-gas. What's off-gassing? It's that smell when you remove the plastic wrap from a new product and it's full of dangerous toxins you don’t want your baby to breathe in. New items from your baby registry can give off this odor for a few days before toning down.

Second-hand items may also have bacteria or other toxins from their previous home that you'll want to kill off in the sun and with a pet-safe and baby-safe cleaner like Force of Nature. Unlike most cleaners, Force of Nature can be used to clean virtually anything in your home and can also be used to sanitize or disinfect items safely without having to worry about dangerous chemicals! Depending on the severity of the dirt or grime on the used nursery room toys or furniture, you may need to clean the items with Force of Nature first before disinfecting the items by spraying Force of Nature again and letting its' Hypochlorous Acid and Sodium Hydroxide solution sit for 10 minutes before wiping your items clean. Even if your nursery room items are brand new, cleaning them with Force of Nature will help remove any excess wood pulp, allergens, and potential mold spores that may be on the items from handling, storage, and shipment. This is a crucial cleaning step that a lot of people skip because they think new is the same as clean when in reality new store items can have all kinds of gross stuff on them. Think about it — you wash your clothes before wearing them and need to sanitize any baby bottles before using them, right? The same goes for all of the baby gear! Use Force of Nature in the rest of your home to keep the whole house safe, too.

4. Switch to organic bedding

When it comes to creating an eco-friendly nursery, choosing organic and natural mattresses & bedding is a must. Traditional mattresses & bedding can be made with harmful chemicals and synthetic materials that can off-gas and contribute to poor indoor air quality. Look for bedding made from organic cotton, coconut, bamboo, or other natural materials that are free from harmful chemicals and dyes. Not only is this better for the environment, but it's also better for your baby's health and well-being.

Some brand-new organic and natural mattress & bedding options are just as affordable as traditional, but if you find a great deal on options via second-hand sales, that can also help bring down costs. Watch for the sale of these more natural brands on marketplaces and in natural parenting groups. You could also opt to buy an organic topper to create a barrier rather than buying a whole new mattress for your bed and baby's crib (if you use one) — it’s less expensive and a great way to reduce the toxins they breathe while sleeping.

Need help finding eco-friendly baby items for your registry? Our friends at BabyList have a few products picked out for you, here.

5. Be picky

Be picky when selecting clothing, toys, furniture, or any materials for your baby's nursery, opt for non-toxic and sustainable options. Look for products made from organic cotton, natural woods, or other sustainable materials that are verified organic or at least OKEO-TEX. Avoid products made with harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, phthalates, and flame retardants. Check the label of your baby's pajamas and look for a tag that says, “For child’s safety, garment should fit snugly” It’s likely that these PJs haven’t been sprayed with flame retardants. This includes items like paint! Make sure furniture is made with VOC-free paint and only use VOC-free paint, like Ecos, when painting the nursery and other rooms in your home while prepping for your baby's birth (look for VOC-free in the base and color of the paint).

This can be deceiving on shopping websites like Amazon where a product might look natural but have an unsafe paint or other materials in it, so opt for well-known sellers/brands when shopping (the extra cost now is well worth it for better health and less medical appointments in the future). You can also repurpose items you already have or shop secondhand to reduce waste and save money.

6. Consider cloth diapering

Disposable diapers are a major contributor to landfill waste, taking hundreds of years to decompose. Switching to reusable cloth diapers can significantly reduce your environmental impact and save you money in the long run. While the upfront cost may be higher, cloth diapers can be reused for multiple children or sold to another family when you no longer need them! Using cloth diapers even part of the time can save you thousands of dollars over the course of your child's diaper-wearing years. You don't have to use cloth diapers all of the time, so don't let that stop you from trying. Opt for eco-friendly cloth diapers made from organic cotton (Amazon affiliate) or bamboo (after all, these items are against your baby's most sensitive skin & parts so you want to avoid chemicals and microplastics here).

7. Re-think your clean routine

According to the EWG, studies have shown that many of these harmful substances end up in dust and break down at a slower rate indoors. It’s best to dust often and clean up these substances with a microfiber cloth and a safe cleaner like Force of Nature. A HEPA vacuum is most efficient at removing dust particles and other contaminants that settle on your floor. Consider steam cleaning tile at least once a month then having a non-toxic cleaning company help with steaming carpets and rugs at least once a year.

Use energy-efficient lighting

Lighting is an important aspect of any nursery, but it can also be a source of unnecessary energy consumption. To create an eco-friendly nursery, opt for energy-efficient lighting options like natural light from outside and LED bulbs. These bulbs use less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, which can save you money on your energy bill in the long run. Using sheer curtains or cord-free shades that still let in a bit of light can help with interior lighting (and ensuring baby gets ample daylight during the day can help with regulating their circadian rhythm if paired with dim lighting and blackout curtains at night).

Sources:

Roberts, J.W. & Ott, W.R. (2007). Exposure to Pollutants from House Dust. In Ott, W.R., Steinemann, A.C. & Wallace, L.A. (Eds.) Exposure Analysis, 319-345. New York: Taylor & Francis and EWG. Wellness Mama “Why to Have a No Shoe Rule in the House.” Study Reveals High Bacteria Levels on Footwear. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://ciriscience.org/ieq-measurement/study-reveals-high-bacteria-levels-on-footwear/, Better Homes & Gardens article “What Are Zero-VOC Paints, and Which Paint Brands Sell Them?”

The post 8 Budget-Friendly Tips for Creating an Eco-Friendly Nursery appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

Have you ever thought about trying cloth diapers? I was determined to cloth diaper when I had my first baby and even tried a cloth diaper delivery service! But with little information and a high delivery bill, my time with cloth diapers didn't last very long. With my second kiddo, I had more information about the types of cloth diapers and how to clean them myself so I've learned a lot about cloth diapering and how to make it work for my family. Here are a few things about cloth diapering that I've learned over the years that you should know.

Navigating Parenthood uses affiliate links in posts which allows us to make a small commission (at no cost to you) if you decide to purchase via any of our links. This helps support the costs of running this website —thank you!

You don't need to be all-in

For some, cloth diapering comes easy, but for others —like me — it doesn't quite click that way. I really wanted to cloth diaper to save money on diapers and save the planet, so I let go of the notion that to be truly “crunchy” or a cloth-diapering mom, you need to do it 100%. Yes, you can cloth diaper at home, on the go, and even if you drop your baby off at daycare — it can be done 100%. But, there are also so many reasons parents are close to cloth diapering then decide not to because they think they need to be all in, and it doesn't have to be that way. You could even switch to cloth diapering just for swim time! Cloth diapering even just a little still saves you money and helps the planet, plus it might be a good way to avoid diaper rash.

With my second, I knew I wasn't ready to use cloth diapers yet with all of the frequent blowouts of a newborn since adjusting to two kiddos was a rough transition for me. I waited a few months and started cloth diapering at night when I knew there'd only be pee in the diaper based on my baby's pee & poo patterns. When my son had regular bowel movements, I began to cloth diaper during the day, too. (I wasn't ready to do all the extra things you need to do for poop in a diaper.)

Tip: Avoid laundry detergents that are marketed as made-for-baby laundry detergents, they are not always safe! Instead, get a scent-free, dye-free, chlorine-free, phosphate-free option that works with your specific home water type (hard or soft) and washer machine.

With pee, you can simply throw the diapers in the wash as normal or add the diapers to your wash with the baby's other clothes! I made cloth-diapering work for my family based on when to use cloth diapers and at what ages/stages in development worked for us, and I'm glad I did. Now, instead of burning out and giving up on the idea of cloth diapering, I've been able to keep at it and am excited to cloth diaper again with our last baby coming in December!

You don't need special laundry detergent

As long as you're using a safe detergent, free of items that could cause buildup, you don't need to go searching for a specialty detergent. This is another thing that confuses a lot of new parents wanting to try cloth diapers . . . but it doesn't have to. In fact, you can use a laundry liquid that's free of dyes, chlorine, phosphates, and optical brighteners.

Everyone has a different cloth favorite

Similar to Cinderella's glass slipper or the story of Goldilocks, sometimes it takes a while to find the right cloth diaper for you and your baby. There are all-in-one cloth diapers, which are similar to a disposable diaper because you just need to grab it and put it on baby, but they can be bulky and some parents don't like the wash process. Then there are hybrids that use covers with disposable liners or reusable ones (called pre-folds) — these allow you to decide if you'd like to add a thick overnight liner or a thinner daytime one in the diaper. There are also pocket diapers— a hybrid between the two above with more lining in the cover and a slot for the additional liner you'd add for daytime or nighttime use.

It goes on and on with all-in-two diapers, flat diapers, sleeve diapers, etc. If you ask moms in a cloth diapering group to name their favorite diaper, chances are everyone will tell you something different about not only their favorite type of cloth diapers but also preferred brands for buying certain types. In the end, you really just need to test them yourself because each kiddo is different, and depending on your baby's age, a certain type of cloth diaper may work better than others. I bought a few all-in-one diapers at first and really liked them, but as my son got older I found that the hybrids worked better for us. About 80% of my cloth diapers are pre-folds and covers (or hybrids). One thing I would recommend is skipping microfiber and buying organic cotton only. This will reduce microplastics in the environment and be a safer option for your baby's skin.

Are you new to cloth diapering or a seasoned pro? What's one thing you've learned over the years that could help new parents considering cloth diapers?

The post 3 things About Cloth Diapering You Need to Know appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

When we found out Savannah was a girl we just sort of announced it on Facebook and everywhere, without all the fancy gender revealing. So this time around I wanted to actually do a gender reveal, not just tell everyone. I've seen a lot of people slice a cake, open a box of balloons, and pop open confetti to reveal the baby's gender so thought I'd come up with something a bit different — A ribbon reveal. Keep reading to find out if I'm having a boy or a girl plus the instructions to make your own ribbon reveal!

Doing a ribbon reveal allowed S to be the one who reveals the gender by pulling at the ribbon until we see the final ribbon color at the end of the spool. I really wanted her to feel a part of the process and the center of attention during the big news so this worked out perfectly. We did the reveal while the whole family was together for my nephew's birthday back in September and I had the husband record it on his phone, but you couldn't see the ribbon in the video because the one we used was so thin, and it was too dark out to really see much in the video. I learned from that for these reveal pics and instructions, though.

It's a . . .

Boy!

S was NOT happy with what she found out when she got to the end of the spool the first time we did this. She even started saying she hated the baby. But by the time we got around to doing the ribbon reveal again for these pics and instructions she had gotten a bit more used to the idea of a baby brother instead of sister and now is more accepting. She thinks about things to give to her baby brother or that she wants to do with him when he's born now, which is super sweet.

How-To: Make Your Own Ribbon Pull Gender Reveal

Materials Needed

For this simple DIY gender reveal you'll need a few things from your local crafts store. Be sure to go when you have a store coupon because at $8 per spool of ribbon the cost can add up.

• 3 spools of wide ribbon (at least 1 inch). Choose whichever colors you prefer. One for boy, one for girl and another color for the start of the ribbon. Each spool should ahve the exact same ribbon width so that the different color ribbons don't show on the sides.
• Scissors
• Double-sided tape or a glue stick
• Fabric glue
• 2 Printed “Girl or Boy?” signs. Get them HERE. You can shrink or enlarge these to fit your spool but will print at about 5×5 each as-is.
• Pen, pencil or long, thin wooden rod

Step 1: Cut Extra Ribbon Off Your Spool

Start with the spool of ribbon that tells everyone the baby's gender. Pull the ribbon off the spool until you reach  the last bit, then cut the rest of the ribbon off. I left a good amount of ribbon on the spool, still, but didn't want it too long. About 12-15 inches is good.

Step 2: Glue on a Second Ribbon

Use fabric glue to attach the next ribbon color to your first spool of ribbon. This can be the opposite gender or the gender-neutral ribbon color. I chose to end my reveal with the blue and have the pink show up just before it. Let dry and test that it's glued well. Add double-sided tape and other reinforcements if needed.

Step 3: Cut Second Ribbon

Choose a “tricky” length for your ribbon that might make guests think that you're revealing the gender with this color ribbon, then cut it off from its spool. You can do a repeat pattern with both the blue and pink (or whatever colors you go with) for a bit to really confuse people, or just do a simple one like mine.

Step 4: Roll and Repeat

Roll up the ribbon that you have on your gender reveal spool so far then repeat the cut and paste steps for your last ribbon color choice to create a start ribbon for the reveal. Use a small piece of tape to tape the last bit of start ribbon onto itself in the spool so that it doesn't unravel before use. (I used the start tape that came on my blue ribbon when I opened the spool.)

Step 5: Apply Boy/Girl Printable

Click the image below, or CLICK HERE to get the Boy/Girl spool printable pdf for this DIY. It comes with two different 5×5 designs that you can either use on either side of the spool or can choose from. Just print the pdf twice if you want to use one design and not the other. You'll need two signs to cover both sides of the spool. After it's printed and cut out (it's OK if it's a tad bit larger than the surface of the spool sides), use double-sided tape or glue to adhere the printables to both sides of the spool. Be sure to spread out your glue evenly so there aren't giant gobs and the paper doesn't get saturated. A glue stick or double-sided table might be best for this one.

Step 6: Create a Handle

Push a sharp pencil (or pen, rod, whatever you choose to use) through the center of the Girl/Boy sign where there's a hole in the spool. You'll hold the pencil from both sides while someone pulls the ribbon out during the gender reveal so that the spool can move freely.

Step 7: Happy Gender Reveal!

Choose someone to gently pull the ribbon from the spool as you hold it by the pencil. This could be the big sis or big bro-to-be or your partner. Enjoy the reveal and congrats on your pregnancy!

What do you think of the ribbon gender reveal, do you like it? Be sure to tag #savvyeveryday in your pictures on social media if you try this out, or email me your pics!

All photos by Urban Shutterbug Photography

The post My Ribbon Gender Reveal appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

Can you believe it's already (almost) a brand new year? In celebration of New Year's Eve I'm actually posting the month's bump cards before the month starts (what an idea, right?) so that mamas can have them for the first days of 2023. These confetti-inspired pregnancy bump photo cards are all glitz with a gold and black background. Enjoy, mamas! 

Download your pregnancy milestone cards

To get your week-by-week preggo bump cards for January, simply click on the image below and print! Each card is about 4.5 x 4.5 inches in size and can be cut to whatever custom shape you wish. This download includes weeks 4-41, so be sure to select which page range you'd like to print if you only need certain weeks.

Remember to tag @navigatingparenthood or use #navigatingparenthood if you use these pregnancy milestone cards when posting to social, I'd love to see them!

The post Dazzling New Year Pregnancy Bump Photo Cards appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

Figuring out what to gift expecting moms for the holidays doesn't have to be tricky. Take a break from gifting just baby clothes and check out these thoughtful holiday gifts for expecting moms instead! The best part? They can all be bought online!

All opinions are genuine and mine alone (I don't include items I haven't reviewed). This post contains sponsored and affiliate links so if you buy something I may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Supportive cushion

Totter & Tumble runners are the thickest, squishiest, most supportive workout mat I've ever seen, making them the best option for any expecting parent to use for birth prep workouts or during labor when working through the big transition to birth time.

Order your mat

Comfortable clothes

If you're looking for a beautiful dress — with pockets! —that looks and feels amazing on an expecting mama and can be used in postpartum while pumping /breastfeeding/body feeding, look no further! The Stela Nursing Dress from Simple Wishes is one of my favorite options for expecting and nursing moms.

SHop simple wishes

Step-in shoes

Give the expecting couple a gift card to Kizik or pick out some shoes for them. Not only will the mama-to-be get to put on her shoes without the 10-minute struggle, but both parents will enjoy the hands-free step-in ease of their shoes once their hands are full with ALL THE THINGS after their baby is born. This just might be their favorite gift yet.

Shop Kizik

All-in-one bag

Lighten the new family-to-be's travel load with the Gladly Family Pod Diaper Bag Changing Station & Travel Cot made with vegan leather! This stylish diaper bag doubles as a changing station that when expanded, also provides a soft and secure napping space (with netting to keep any bugs out).

Shop Gladly Family

Mindful learning

Through 5-Minute Mindfulness for Pregnancy: Simple Practices to Feel Calm, Present, and Connected to Your Baby, new parents gain clarity, calm, and new tools to use to decrease stress levels during pregnancy fears around birth, and overwhelm in postpartum. I highly recommend this book with Mindfulness Journal for Parents: Prompts and Practices to Stay Calm, Present, and Connected as a gift bundle this year!

Order now

See more gift guides, sales, and giveaways in our Family Holiday Library >>

Hydrating Skincare

Hydration is important during pregnancy – both inside and out. MyCHELLE's HYDRATE Collection helps the skin maintain a healthy moisture level through deep repair cream, hyaluronic serum, eye gel, cleanser, water mask, beauty mist, and hydrating cream. Give the gift of renewed skin!

Shop Skincare

Supportive pillow

The Belly Bandit – S.O.S. Sleep on Side Pregnancy Pillow helps expecting moms stay to their left side when asleep and works great as a back support wedge, too! Comfortable and proper body alignment during pregnancy not only helps the mom-to-be have fewer aches and pains but also improves the baby's positioning which can affect how their brain and body develop.

Shop wedges

Postpartum prep

The pregnancy journey doesn't end at birth! During the Complete Postpartum Prep Program expecting families learn from 12+ experts about the changes that occur emotionally, physically, and mentally during postpartum. Families also learn coping tools and the resources for a solid starting foundation to build on after birth. Be sure to check out all the amazing breastfeeding education via The 12 Days of Breastfeeding Summit Recordings and the FamSummit Recordings (covering pregnancy through the first 5 years of life).

Order now

Communication starters

Communication before and after birth is so important for new families — checking in and talking about how they are feeling or how routines may need to change. Dad Deck offers questions and conversation starters for dads that dads-to-be and their partner can use to start thinking about parenting.

Learn MOre

Hands-free cuddles

This comforting wrap can be worn around a mama’s belly for extra support during pregnancy, used as a comfort measure during labor, or worn as a baby carrier by either parent (its primary use) to provide a womb-like feel for the newborn after birth. A Solly Baby Wrap is a must for hands-free time, especially if the parent-to-be is a first-time parent who hasn't learned how attached their newborn will be yet (this will give their sanity).

Pick your Wrap

The post Extremely Thoughtful Holiday Gifts for Expecting Parents appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

It's been a little over 4 years since I gave birth to Savannah, but I thought it would be fun to share what I brought in my hospital bag . . . and what I actually used, aside from a general “What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag,” which I'll add later, too. Look through this hospital bag checklist for mom and let me know if you've tried any of these items and what you packed for your little one's arrival!

Updated Oct. 2022

This post may contain affiliate links.

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom and Baby

There are so many hospital bag checklists out there but most of them include many things that you likely won't even end up using. In this post, I am sharing what hospital bag items you'll actually use when you give birth, all of which are actually useful and that you will be thankful that you brought along!

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom and Baby:

1. Hospital Bag Itself
2. Soothing Kit
3. Music
4. Push Dress
5. Baby Outfits
6. Personal Care Items (the basics)
7. Clothes for Discharge
8. Birthing Ball
9. Birth Plan
10. Slippers

Those ten things are necessary for your hospital bag. Some extras include phone chargers, your kindle, your favorite snacks, a nursing gown, your own pillow and blanket, and comfortable pj's. But in all honesty, you really do not need those things and you likely won't even be thinking about them when it comes to your birth and after-birth stay.

Here is a deeper dive into each of the items shared in my hospital bag checklist mentioned above.

1. Soothing Kit

Something like Earth Mama's Mama & Baby Collection kits offers things like a healing sitz bath, baby cleanser, perineal balm, and more. Everything to help you heal in postpartum and ensure the baby's skin is taken care of too. I just love this box as a gift and all the organic care items in it.

2. The Hospital Bag Itself

I bought a bag by Heidi Klum at Motherhood maternity and I just adored this bag (sadly don't have it anymore and can't find the image online). But here are a few other options you might love!

3. Music

I set up a Push Playlist and put it on my iPod (Yep, this was that long ago) for me to listen to at the hospital to take the focus off any pain and make it more fun. Yea, that didn't happen. There was even a point where I wanted everyone silent so I could focus. Now, I highly recommend Hypnobabies tracks. I've used them for my other births and they really helped me through contractions/waves and being more mindful in daily parenting life in general, too. Code hypno1528 saves you 15% off your order!

4. Push Dress

Instead of wearing an uncomfortable hospital gown, I wanted to wear something of my own while delivering so I bought a Pretty Pusher birthing gown. Once at the hospital, I changed into my Pretty Pusher and started labor. Since I was only 1 cm dilated but S' heart rate was over the top, the hospital induced me and broke my water. Going in, I planned on natural birth, but by about 9 cm I asked for an epidural because their breaking my water quickly like that was quite painful. They had me take off the Pretty Pusher and wear one of their gowns then because the slit in the back wasn't low enough (I think Pretty Pusher has made it lower since then). Side note: I regret getting the epidural because I was so close without it, and it made it hard for me to feel when to push on my own.

5. Baby Outfits

I wasn't entirely sure how much Savannah would weigh when she was born so I had a few newborn outfits picked out for her and kept in my hospital bag. When she was born I actually just kept her wrapped in the blankets until the hospital photographer came around for a picture, and discharge when I dressed her up to go home. For this hospital bag checklist, I would suggest bringing 2-3 outfits in different sizes!

6. Personal Care Items

This includes makeup (yep, I thought I'd be wearing that and have pretty birthing photos but it didn't happen), which I put on after my first shower the next day, a toothbrush & toothpaste, and all my shower items. I'm so glad I brought this stuff. Whether you think you'll shower at the hospital or not, bring it! A hairbrush and hair tie are also great choices that should be included in your hospital bag checklist.

7. Clothes For Discharge

I packed a change of clothes for me to wear the next day, too. Changing my clothes after a shower and finally being able to use the bathroom without complications (yea, I went there, TMI town), well, it was so nice. I was up late delivering Savannah, then all night just staring at her in awe once she was born, so the shower was necessary to wake up and get refreshed.

8.  The Birth Ball

So my birth ball (a stability/balance ball) didn't actually fit in the bag, because mine was already inflated, but I totally prepped for labor with workouts using The Birth Ball and bringing it to the hospital to work through contractions. I leaned over The Birth Ball when sitting in the hospital bed and when in a rocking chair in the room. I was on The Birth Ball most of the time and everything went very smoothly with it until the hospital staff told me I had to go into bed without it because they were breaking my water and wanted me to lie down. This was one of my favorites from this hospital bag checklist!

9. Birth Plan

Yea, I packed my birth plan because it is mentioned in every hospital bag checklist and immediately handed it to an RN (like she was going to read it), then I went into the hospital room and the “birth plan” was a thing of the past. What I learned from this is that birth is always different each time, and with each person. It can be very unpredictable so it's great to have a plan, but you need to understand that things will likely not go that way. Another bit of advice I have from that experience is to advocate for yourself. This is where a birth plan is handy. You can note down important things for you to remember.

Since I was in a hospital room I had to make sure whatever I did was within their rules, but it was also my birth, so I should have been more vocal (and brought more advocates) about what I wanted in my birth. I learned about doulas after having my daughter, and I kind of like the idea.

For useful birth plan examples, check out this post.

10. Slippers

The hospital gives you grip socks to walk around in after giving birth, and I recommend you use those instead of any other soft slippers or socks you might bring. I could barely walk after birth because of the epidural and would have slipped if I used my own non-grip slippers.

Here are some slipper options with grip to add to your hospital bag:

I hope this hospital bag checklist helps to give you a few ideas of what you may or may not need in your birthing bag. If you've already given birth, please share your did and didn't needs in the comments below!

For more baby posts, check these ones out:

The Ultimate Star, Moon and Cloud Baby Registry

Mint and Gray Star and Moon Nursery Design

The Copy & Paste Baby Registry

Read about my 4-Day Birth Story ->>

The post Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom and Baby 2022 Edition appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

Are you tracking your pregnancy or the first few weeks of your kiddo's life? Why not use photo cards themed for the month?! Keep reading to snag your own November pregnancy week-by-week photo cards for weeks 4-41!

Why Use Pregnancy Photo Cards?

Is your pregnancy just starting or already flying by? Don't forget to take your bump shots for the month before time passes you by! Week-by-week pregnancy photo cards are a great way to track your pregnancy to look back on and reminisce in later. Try these out for your November maternity photos!

I didn't really take consistent bump shots when I was pregnant with S and really regret it — Especially because it would have been fun to compare my bump from that pregnancy with this one. So this time around I'm using themed pregnancy week-by-week photo cards to remember not only how many weeks along I was with each bump, but the month, too!

Photo Ideas for Weekly Pregnancy Photo Cards

I try to take the pics in front of something major that's going on, like in the above picture where I'm in front off the pile of boxes currently in our garage after a busy move this week. This helps me remember that when I was 24 weeks pregnant it was November and we moved to our new apartment.

But a classic mirror or side shot is a great way to document your pregnancy with these week-by-week pregnancy photo cards! Mirror shots are a classic way to track your pregnancy belly, but if you're going for a more “Instagram-worthy” pregnancy photoshoot, from the side is your best bet for an easy shot that shows just how much your belly is growing with your little babe inside!

I kept the November cards very warm and festive, without Thanksgiving-specific reference. I hope you enjoy them!

How to Download Your Free November Pregnancy Week-by-Week Photo Cards

To Download your own November week-by-week photo cards, simply click on the image below! Please Pin this post and share it with any mama friends you know. Be sure to check back for the December photo cards next month, too.

For more monthly pregnancy week by week photo cards, click here!

Have a suggestion for next month's photo card? Tell me in the comments! Happy November, mamas!

The post November Pregnancy Week-by-Week Photo Cards (Free Download) appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

If you're obsessed with halloween like I am, you'll love these halloween themed pregnancy milestone cards.

One of the things I wish I had done during my pregnancy with my oldest daughter was to keep better track of my growing bump and her first months postpartum using milestone pic cards. After seeing some cute and not-so-cute ones I decided to make my own and share them with you! Keep reading to snag your free digital download of our halloween themed pregnancy milestone cards —perfect for growing bellies or baby's first few months!

Don't miss our Thanksgiving/Fall-themed bump & baby pic cards for next month, here!

Halloween Themed Pregnancy Milestone Cards

If you love halloween, you'll love these halloween month by month cards for documenting your pregnancy. They are super easy to download and you'll be able to use them to document your entire pregnancy. Like I said earlier, I wish I would have documented my pregnancy with my daughter better and that is why I suggest to every pregnant person I see now that they begin documenting their pregnancies. It is so important and definitely something you will cherish later on!

So if you're obsessed with halloween, skip on to the next section to download your free pregnancy milestone cards!

How to Download the Milestone Cards

Click the image below to get your free halloween themed pregnancy milestone cards!

This download includes twelve 3.5″ X 3.5″ halloween themed pregnancy cards (four per page). Please be sure to tag @navigatingparenthood on social if you use these cards, we'd love to see them!

Take these cards a step further and give yourself a halloween themed pregnancy by throwing a halloween themed baby shower, gender reveal, or even decorate your nursery with halloween themed decor! If you're lucky enough to be pregnant during the month of halloween, don't forget to paint a cute baby pumpkin on your belly as well!

For more halloween fun, check out these posts:

The post Free Halloween Themed Pregnancy Milestone Cards Download appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

We’ve been working on ways to ensure our younger kids don’t feel upset with a new baby in the house. Aside from including them in all baby-related activities and centering what we can on the fact that they’re an awesome big sibling, we’ve also been looking into gifts! Big sibling gifts are a great way to prepare an older sibling for the arrival of a new baby — they help the big brother or big sister to feel special, thought of, and important instead of replaced or ignored to help hinder some of that new sibling jealousy. But this gift really needs to meet certain criteria to support the whole family through this big transition. Keep reading for my tips for buying a big sibling gift from the baby and to find out which gift I went with for my 2-year-old!

A big thank you to Little Tikes for sponsoring this conversation. All opinions are mine alone.

Choose something engaging

Have you ever heard of a sibling basket? It’s something nursing moms give the older sibling only during nursing time so that they can attempt to breastfeed their baby in peace. For me, this new sibling gift should check all of those same boxes so that your child can play independently (or with other siblings) once the baby arrives rather than needing you to play with them. For this reason, I wanted a sibling gift for my 2-year-old, Nora, that would naturally allow for multiple ways to use the toy for different activities.

I chose the Little Tikes® Learn & Play 2-in-1 Activity Tunnel because it includes so many ways to engage with the toy — Nora can crawl through the tunnel or play with the ball drops. She can listen to silly sounds when the balls pass the arch or turn music and sounds off! It’s meant for kids ages 1-3 years old but her 4-year-old brother really loves it too, which means it’s a fantastic toy for getting the two of them to actually play nicely together — win! The tunnel has circular windows for peek-a-boo fun that Nora likes to drop balls into as well! When using her imagination, Nora can even bring other items (like little figurines) into playtime with this toy for hours of open-ended play.

Ensure it’s age-appropriate

A big sibling gift should be age-appropriate so that your kiddo doesn’t struggle with how to use it. The Little Tikes® 2-in-1 Activity Tunnel I got for Nora is just right for her age, which means it’s simple for her to use and she can create new ways to play on her own. This big sibling gift also promotes age-appropriate development through crawling, reaching, ball color recognition, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor development so I know that she’s learning through play — the best way to learn at this age.

Buy something parent-friendly

Of course, you want the gift to be something your child loves, but not at the expense of the
whole family. So if you’re not a fan of big clunky toys, don’t get them. I picked Nora’s big sibling
gift because when it’s time to clean up, the whole thing accordion folds together to tuck away in
a small space for easy storage!

Don’t want something that makes a lot of loud sounds? Skip toys like those or opt for ones like the Little Tikes® Learn & Play 2-in-1 Activity Tunnel that allow you to keep that feature turned off when it’s quiet time. The last thing you want is to feel flustered and frustrated with the gift you gave your child to help them ease into being a big sibling . . . or to have to resort to extra screen time which can result in a moody child. It should be a fun gift and a fun time for everyone!

What would you add to this list?

The post 3 Tips for Buying Big Sibling Gifts From Baby appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

When it comes to baby registry lists, the most common question is usually, “What should I put on my baby registry and what should I skip?” So to make this whole registry thing easier, I've created The Copy & Paste Baby Shower Registry.

This guide is filled with the most useful baby shower gifts — with a focus on eco-friendly & natural when possible — using a combination of my own experience with 4+ kiddos, the needs of expecting & postpartum clients, and online recommendations from parents throughout the U.S. Whether you're a first-time parent, adopting or expecting again, this guide was created for you — simply send it to friends & family instead of spending hours searching for the right items online.

All items in The Copy & Paste Baby Registry were reviewed to ensure we're recommending quality items. This guide also includes affiliate links and discount codes. (We only sign up to be an affiliate for companies we already recommend.)

HAPP Levy Diaper Backpack

This stylish backpack offers a lightweight feel yet durable material packed with the tools to keep a new mom organized. The HAPP Levy diaper backpack comes in 3 colorways and offers a variety of matching inserts to help keep everything together.

ORDER

8 Sheep Organic Sleep Lotion

Pregnancy and postpartum come with a lot of not-so-fun things that disturb your sleep like restless legs & cramps, back & hip pain, and nighttime wake-ups. This creamy US-made lotion includes 100% organic ingredients to help mamas get more restful, deeper sleep.

ORDER

Sustainable Baby MoonWomb

The MoonWomb pillow is perfect for easing sleeping pains during pregnancy by allowing for proper body positioning but can also be used for years to come as a nursing pillow or stylish bed or couch pillow. Bonus: Try using it with baby for tummy time!

ORDER

>> Click Here to Get your free DIY Birth Plan Printable <<

Solly Mom & Baby Bundle baby shower

Aside from Solly Baby's cozy US-made baby swaddle and wrap, this beautiful gift bundle includes a buttery soft robe for pregnancy or postpartum, along with a Teakwood candle to help restore moments of calm for mom.

ORDER

Earth Mama Toiletry Gift Set

Earth Mama Organics' eco-friendly package includes 5 mini cruelty-free products perfect for a Babymoon, daily use, or the hospital birth bag — a mini citrus deodorant, orange belly butter, Castile body wash, belly oil, and orange ginger lip balm.

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Lilu Massage Bra

The Lilu Massage Bra gently mimics the compression of hand massage to help moms get 30-55% more milk out each pumping session — all hands-free. Lilu is created by a female-led, BIPOC team hoping to make the world an easier place for new moms.

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Deluxe Cordless Electric Breastpump

Crane's Deluxe Cordless Electric Breastpump mimics baby's sucking motion, is super quiet, and offers dual modes to make using it a breeze. Definitely look into this pump for the mom going back to work soon or who simply wants to start storing milk for other reasons.

ORDER

Crane Lactation Massager

If the new mama doesn't plan on pumping or needing a whole bra to help massage the breasts for a letdown, check out Crane's Lactation Massager. It's great for helping to move milk along or even for use on sore muscles during labor!

ORDER

Complete Postpartum Prep

It doesn't matter if this is the first baby or the fifth, there's a lot that changes with each birth, and a lot that's unknown to most mothers. The Complete Postpartum Prep online program equips moms with education and resources so that she already knows what to do when she's in postpartum.

enroll

All The Baby Things

BOB Alterrain Stroller

From a height-adjustable handlebar, UPF 50+ canopy, simple quick fold, 5 storage pockets, a smooth ride, and a sleek metal frame it's no wonder BOB strollers are a parent favorite whether they participate in Fit4Mom or not. It's also a cinch to assemble (which is huge).

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Hope & Plum Ring Sling

Ring slings are simple-to-use, compact carriers that also double as a nursing cover, spit-up rag, baby blanket, and more! Hemp ring slings can go in the water and hold heavier tots as well, but Hope & Plum offers free private consultations to find the right ring sling for each family's needs.

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Yogasleep Nod

Yogasleep's Nod sound machine with a soft dimmable nightlight includes a variety of pink noise sounds (about 20) and sleep timers so that everyone can get a restful sleep.

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Little Green Sheep Quilted Moses Basket

Moses baskets are versatile and lightweight sleepers for babies ages 6 months and younger, making adding one to the list for use in the bedroom, living room, or at a relative's house a must. This Little Green Sheep Quilted Moses Basket at Scandiborn comes complete with an organic mattress for a safe and natural sleep start.

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Infant Massage Education

Infant massage helps parents and babies sleep better, connect more, and feel less anxious. It has also been known to reduce body tightness and pain in babies, reduce gas and colic, and boost mood. The gift of an on-demand virtual infant massage class will last the new family for years as they continue what they've learned as their child grows.

enroll

Little Dutch Memory Box

Sometimes keeping memories together is a lot easier than creating a baby book with every little moment and milestone written down and photographed. The Little Dutch Memory Box at Scandiborn helps families cherish the big memories for their little one to look at in the future. Everything from special notes, that first lock of hair, and foot & handprints are kept safe.

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Mason Bottle Set

The perfect option for eco-conscious families who want to keep the number of plastics low. Mason Bottles also function as durable mason jars to store breastmilk, formula, baby food, and more!

Save 15% with code “parenthood”

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The Noggle

It's difficult to get good airflow to the second or third rows of most cars, and even harder for a rear-facing car seat — until you have The Noggle. This car seat tech-approved device allows for more direct airflow to the littles in the back seats so they can stay cool & safe. Get 10% off your order via the link below!

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Etta Loves Reversible Travel Cushion

Tummy time just got more interesting! Etta Loves designed their organic playmats with an orthoptist to support babies' visual and cognitive development. The patterns encourage babies to use their back, neck, and shoulder muscles as prep for crawling.

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Cam CamCushion

Changing tables are a thing of the past. Changing cushions like the Cam Cam Changing Cushion from Scandiborn allow for comfortable diaper changes anywhere — on the dresser, on the floor, at the grandparent's house, or on a trip!

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Lovevery Play Kits

Lovevery Play Kits take the guesswork out of what to do with the baby! Each kit is designed for a specific age range or stage of development and includes both appropriate heirloom-quality toys and a booklet with more ways to expand the development-based fun.

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Britax Travel System

Looking for a parent-friendly travel system? This Britax set includes the sleek B-Lively stroller (super easy to put together and fold/unfold) and B-Safe car seat with a steel-reinforced car seat base and SafeCell crumple zone, two layers of side impact protection, and secure installation with or without a base!

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Omni Breeze Carrier

Ergobaby's Omni Breeze is a fantastic carrier for both daily use and outdoor adventures because it has SoftFlex mesh fabric for maximum airflow. I always recommend having a few babywearing options since different members of the family have their own carrier preferences (and when/where you babywear may decide which you use).

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California Baby Welcome Baby Basket

This basket is jam-packed with 14 products to help new parents keep their baby clean and comfortable — from their sweet bubble bath and body wash to diaper wash, Calendula cream, diaper ointment, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer! And it's all plant-based, cruelty-free, and allergy-tested.

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Organic Baby Wellness Essentials

Ensuring new families have all the tools they need to keep their little one(s) healthy is extremely important. ChildLife Essentials' Organic Baby Essentials Bundle includes Organic Vitamin K2, Vitamin D3, and Gripe Water to help set a strong foundation for health and save parents from late-night trips to the pharmacy.

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For The Whole Family

wander & roam Mat

Wander & Roam play mats are eco-friendly, hypoallergenic & easy to clean making them the perfect spot for everything from diaper changes and tummy time to infant massage, toy building, and postpartum workouts. The variety of stylish designs allows for use as a rug in common areas of the home too — it's a dream to walk on.

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Crane 4-in-1 Cool Humidifier

Since the AAP recommends room sharing for the first year, both baby and parents will benefit from Crane's new super quiet 4-in-1 Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier. If the family isn't room-sharing, buy them a few of these, it's a MUST for each room!

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Bro-To Travel Lot

Bro-To's travel set is a great gift for expecting fathers as it comes in handy on a babymoon, at a hospital birth, or at home for daily use! The Lot includes a gentle face wash, a non-greasy face oil, and a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that hydrates and soothes.

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Branch Basics Cleaning Kit

The arrival of a new baby is the perfect time to ditch the toxins and switch to safer, more eco-friendly cleaning supplies that work well. This starter kit has everything to help an expecting family prep for baby, or a friend/family member to use safely when cleaning house for the new parents as a gift. Get $10 off by using my link (below or hyperlinked above).

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Spoonful of Comfort Care Package

Remembering to eat is one thing, figuring out what to eat and how to get it is a whole other problem for new parents! The Spoonful of Comfort New Parent Care Package solves this problem via warming seasonal soups, Bacci rolls, yummy cookies, and a sweet notecard.

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Gro-To Sibling Bath Set

Gift the big sibling(s) their own special bath set just like the baby's getting from the shower! This kit includes a gentle plant-based bubble bath/body wash, calming body lotion, a soothing body oil, and a Bad Dream Buster calming room spray. The funny face stickers and fun lunchbox tote allow for imaginative play, too!

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>> Click here to Download a shoppable PDF version of The Copy & Paste Baby Registry <<

Navigating Parenthood's Copy & Paste Baby Registry is focused on eco-friendly/safe options and is split up into simple sections like Mom, Baby, and Whole Family so friends & family can easily find something from one or each category to gift at the baby shower. This guide does not include a crib or separate “nursery” section since not all parents use these and the AAP recommends room sharing for the first year of life. All items in The Copy & Paste Baby Registry were reviewed to ensure we're recommending quality items. This guide also includes affiliate links and discount codes. (We only sign up to be an affiliate for companies we already recommend.)

The post The Copy & Paste Baby Registry appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

You've just found out you're pregnant and you're excited… until the anxiety from all the to-dos sets in like where to find the perfect baby name, what to register for, where to find the best resources … The list goes on and would make anyone anxious! Well, no need to worry, this free & simple pregnancy planning guide will help you along the way and streamline all those to-dos for you.

Ready to get organized?! Simply fill out the form HERE and you'll be directed to the PDF download that you can print at home!

Happy pregnancy planning! Please let me know what you think and if there's anything you want to be added.

The post Pregnancy Planning Made Simple appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.

What can you do to set your baby on a path to good lifelong health as a pregnant mom? When my husband Victor and I decided to try for a baby, we poured ourselves into researching what we might do to lower our baby’s risk of chronic illnesses since we both suffer from pretty much every chronic condition you can imagine. Between my studies in Nutritional Therapy at the Irish Institute of Nutrition & Health and Victor's PhD in psychology, we found that by making relatively simple changes to your diet and lifestyle, you can reduce a child’s risk for these conditions significantly— perhaps by as much as 80-90 percent! 

It mainly comes down to two things. First: Minding your microbiome, the friendly bacteria in your gut. Your microbiome is passed on to your child via birth and breastfeeding and then plays a crucial role in programming your baby's immune system. Second: Avoiding environmental and lifestyle factors that cause inflammation in your body. In this guest post, I'd like to share my top five “lifestyle tweaks” to achieve both.

Eat fresh, whole foods

Eat whole foods and cook from fresh ingredients. Try to avoid processed foods with long ingredient lists. Don’t overeat — make smaller portion sizes, or try using smaller plates! Ideally, follow a mostly plant-based diet with lots of fiber and healthy fats like olive oil and fish. Fiber feeds your microbiome, which turns it into anti-inflammatory, cancer-fighting short-chain fatty acids. Olive oil and omega-3 fats from fish are also super-anti-inflammatory. The easiest, tastiest way that I know of to achieve this: The Mediterranean diet.

Avoid antibiotics

Unless they are really, truly necessary, try to avoid antibiotics. They wipe out your microbiome, which can take years to recover. Antibiotics are generally overprescribed, especially during pregnancy and early childhood. Often there are safer, more effective alternatives you can discuss with your doctor about trying first, like probiotic treatments with specific beneficial bacteria.

Go to bed early

This is a big one for us — in our family, if anybody doesn’t get enough sleep, we’re dealing with a gremlin the next day. We get cranky, moody, and our allergies and skin flare-up. We need 8 hours of sleep to feel properly rested and recharged. Some people insist they can get by on much less, but Matthew Walker’s book “Why We Sleep” shows that pretty much everyone’s cognitive performance and immune function declines dramatically, and inflammation soars, if they permanently survive on less than 7 ½ hours of sleep per night. 

Ditch the scents

Replace scented cleaners & cosmetics with more natural options. Raid your cleaning cabinet and your cosmetics drawer, and toss out anything that’s heavily scented or can be sprayed. The worst are spray cleaners and “air fresheners” — a funny name for something that gives 20 percent of the US population headaches and breathing difficulties! These two are the worst for causing indoor air pollution that irritates your lungs and causes airway inflammation.

Products that are heavily scented almost always contain hormone-disrupting phthalates that have been found to cause allergies, asthma, and worse. Most supermarkets and drugstores now stock a range of more natural cleaning products and cosmetics. As a rule of thumb, choosing those products over the regular ones should be an improvement for your wellness and health. 

Get dirty

Get out into nature & get dirty: It’s not a secret that being out in nature reduces stress and boosts your mood. Also, your body turns sunlight into Vitamin D, which is crucial for your immune system and feeds your microbiome. Speaking of which: Exposure to the friendly bacteria that live on plants, on pollen, in soil, and in the fresh forest air also increases your microbiome diversity and makes you less prone to allergies.

There are many other things that you can do to improve your baby's chances of lifelong good health – The key is to start somewhere and not get overwhelmed. Health is a spectrum: Every little step you take towards a healthier lifestyle is worth it!

Michelle Henning is a Certified Nutrition & Health Coach and the co-author of Grow Healthy Babies: The Evidence-Based Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy and Reducing Your Child’s Risk of Asthma, Eczema, and Allergies. 

The post 5 Ways Pregnant Moms Can Improve Their Baby’s Health appeared first on Navigating Parenthood.