Parenthood Archives

Your Baby’s Development and Growth, Week-by-Week

Hannah Connors May 28, 2023

Welcoming a new life into the world is an awe-inspiring experience for any parent, and from the moment you find out you’re pregnant, understanding your baby’s development becomes a top priority. Your baby will grow and change in incredible ways over the course of your pregnancy, transitioning from a tiny bundle of cells to a fully-formed human being. And after you give birth, you’ll continue to track your baby’s development milestones alongside your healthcare provider, oftentimes with the help of a growth chart. In this post, we’ll walk you through your baby’s development in each trimester, week by week. You’ll also learn what growth charts are, how to get one, and how you can tell if there is a problem with your baby’s growth. Fetal Development Before you even know you’re pregnant, the process of fetal development has begun. Your baby will go through three main stages of development between conception and birth: germinal, embryonic, and fetal. Stages of fetal development Germinal stage: This first stage of fetal development is also the shortest. It starts at conception, when the sperm fertilizes the egg in your fallopian tube, forming a zygote. Next, the zygote moves down your fallopian tube toward the uterus, dividing many times until it creates two separate structures (one will become the embryo, while the other will become the placenta). The tiny ball of cells that will later develop into the embryo is now inside a structure called the blastocyst. The blastocyst implants into the lining of the uterus, which triggers your body to start producing hormones to support a pregnancy. Embryonic stage: From weeks 3-8 of pregnancy, the blastocyst develops human characteristics and is now called an embryo. Your baby’s head, eyes, mouth, and limbs form during this time, along with the neural tube, which later will become the brain and spinal cord. By the end of this stage, most of your baby’s organs and life-sustaining systems will have started to develop, including their heartbeat. Fetal stage: Around week 9 of pregnancy, the embryo officially turns into a fetus. Thus begins the fetal stage, which lasts until birth and is when major fetal weight growth occurs. Your baby’s major organs (including their sex organs) grow and mature during this time, as well as fingernails, eyelashes, and hair. Stages of Baby Growth by Trimester You and your baby will experience big changes throughout each trimester. Read on to discover the nitty-gritty of your baby’s growth and development, week by week. First Trimester Weeks 1-2: Believe it or not, you’re actually not pregnant the first week or two of the time period that’s considered your pregnancy term. Conception usually occurs around two weeks after your last period begins, and your healthcare provider calculates your estimated due date by counting 40 weeks from the beginning of your last period. Week 3: This is when conception actually happens, through fertilization—sperm and egg come together in your fallopian tube to form a zygote (or multiple zygotes, if more than one egg is fertilized or the egg splits). Week 4: The tiny ball of cells, dividing rapidly and now referred to as a blastocyst, initiates the process of implantation by burrowing into the uterine lining. Week 5: The neural tube forms, which eventually will be the foundation for your baby’s brain and spinal cord. Week 6: Blood cells are starting to form, circulation begins, and your healthcare provider may be able to detect a heartbeat on an ultrasound. Small buds that will become your baby’s arms and legs form, as well as the structures that will eventually turn into their eyes, ears, and mouth. Week 7: Your baby’s brain and face are growing—their retinas start to form and depressions that will later become nostrils are now visible. Week 8: By the end of week 8, the embryo is now considered a fetus, and it’s about 0.5 to 1 inch long. Eyes become visible, ears start to form, and the fetus has webbed hands and feet. Week 9: Arms grow and elbows and toes appear. Your baby’s body shape starts to take on more of a human appearance, although its head is still 50% of its length. Week 10: No more webbing, as the arms, hands, fingers, feet, and toes have fully formed. Your baby can now bend their elbows, and their eyelids and external ears continue to form. Week 11: Your baby’s external genitals start forming, and buds where teeth will develop appear. While it’s too soon to feel any kicks, your baby is starting to explore movement through things like opening and closing their fists and mouth. Week 12: Your baby is growing fingernails, and at this point, all their organs, limbs, bones, and muscles have started developing. By the end of the first trimester, the fetus is roughly 2.5 to 3 inches long. Second Trimester Week 13: Your baby’s vocal cords form and their head starts to become more proportionate to the rest of their body. Some of your baby’s bones start to harden, particularly in the skull and long bones. Week 14: External genitals fully develop this week, making your baby’s sex more apparent. Their skin begins to thicken and fine hair starts growing. Week 15: Lungs start to develop, and some organs, such as the intestines and ears, move to their permanent position. Your baby is starting to smile! Week 16: While their movements are too slight to be detected by you at this point, your baby’s limb movements are becoming coordinated and can be detected via ultrasound. At this point the fetus is roughly 5 inches long and weighs around 4 ounces. Week 17: Your baby starts to put on fat and their toenails develop. Week 18: Your baby’s ears begin to stand out on the side of their head and they may start to hear sounds. At this stage, your baby’s digestive system has started working. Week 19: Your baby can hiccup! They are getting stronger, and most moms start to feel them kicking. Plus, a

8 Best Toddler Pillows in 2024

Dani Wolfe May 25, 2023

Who knew purchasing a pillow for your toddler would be such a big deal before becoming a mom? Scrolling through endless online reviews, searching Facebook group recommendations, feeling like you’ve been Googling for hours—only to feel more confused. We’ve taken the headache away. Our team of moms and experts put in the work for you so you can get back to snuggling your sweet toddler. Read on for a roundup of the 8 best toddler pillows in 2024. In a hurry? Here are the top picks: Toddler Pillow vs. Regular Pillow: What’s the Difference? First-time moms often find it surprising that toddlers need their own special pillow. But why? The main differences between a toddler and a regular adult pillow are the size and fluffiness. Designed for toddlers, this type of pillow is used for transitioning from a strictly flat surface to adding some support under their little heads–it’s a huge adjustment. First-time moms often find it surprising that toddlers need their own special pillow, often referred to as a child’s pillow. But why? The main differences between a toddler and a regular adult pillow are the size and fluffiness. Designed for toddlers, this type of pillow is used for transitioning from a strictly flat surface to adding some support under their little heads–it’s a huge adjustment. Moreover, the right size of a toddler pillow ensures it fits perfectly in their own bed, encouraging better sleep without the excess material of an adult-sized pillow. There is a risk of suffocation when toddlers use adult-sized pillows. Dr. Steven Alcuri, MD, a board-certified Pediatrician in Maryland with over 25 years of experience, suggests the average size of a toddler pillow should be around 12 by 16 inches in diameter, and 2 to 3 inches thick. You also don’t want something too plush. Support is the main goal with toddler pillows to help their growth while keeping them safe, making it the best option for a child’s first pillow. When Can a Toddler Have a Pillow? Many pediatricians and sleep experts agree to wait until your little one is 2 years old to introduce a pillow. “Prior to that, pillows are not regarded as safe due to the risk of suffocation,” says Alcuri. This is also a good time to ensure the pillow you choose does not emit volatile organic compounds, which can be common in non-organic bedding materials. You should also hold off on using a pillow if your toddler is still sleeping in a crib. “Objects in a crib can be used as a climbing aid, creating a risk of falling over the rails,” explains Alcuri. Once your toddler hits 2 years of age and has transitioned into a toddler bed, then it’s considered safe to introduce an organic pillow, which is often the safer choice due to its natural materials. Signs Your Toddler Needs a Pillow So your toddler meets the requirements to introduce a pillow, but you’re not sure if they really need one yet. Doctor Alcuri lists a few signs to look out for that suggest your toddler is ready for their first pillow. These signs are not the end-all-be-all. But giving your toddler a pillow to try could help improve their sleep and even make them feel excited and proud when it comes to getting some Zs. It’s also worth mentioning that the care of a toddler’s pillow is crucial; washing it in cold water in a washing machine periodically can help maintain its cleanliness and longevity. 1. Best Overall Toddler Pillow KeaBabies Toddler Pillow With over 32,000 ratings and a 4.7-star rating, it’s no wonder this was chosen as the best toddler pillow for sleeping. One mom even asked the brand “Do they sell an adult version of this pillow?” This is definitely a great option for your toddler’s first pillow. It’s safe, natural, gentle, breathable, provides support, is durable, and even comes in 29 different designs–what’s not to love? Why we love it Buy Now 2. Best Organic Toddler Pillow The Avocado Organic Toddler Pillow If non-toxic and organic material is important for your little one to rest their head on, this is your go-to toddler pillow. Winner of the 2021 Good Housekeeping Awards, climate neutral certified, and meeting the global organic textile standard, you can see why this is on our list as the best organic toddler pillow. Be sure to check out their organic waterproof pillow protector while you’re adding it to your cart! Why we love it Buy Now 3. Best Cooling Toddler Pillow Continental Bedding Microfiber Toddler Cooling Pillow Does your toddler run hot? If so, a microfiber pillow is a great option for cooling. This toddler pillow by Continental Bedding offers amazing temperature control that lasts all through the night. No more rolling from the right side of the pillow to the left looking for cool spots. They even ensure a comfortable and restful sleep with a money-back guarantee! Why we love it Buy Now 4. Best Breathable Toddler Pillow Woolino Toddler Wool Pillow Did you know that wool is one of the most breathable fabrics? The Woolino toddler pillow is made from 100 percent Australian wool – pretty neat isn’t it, mate? They even deem it “superbly breathable.” The Woolino is also a great option for toddlers who are restless at night moving in different positions due to its cooling temperature regulation. Another plus? Fast shipping! Why we love it Buy Now 5. Best Comfortable Toddler Pillow Little One’s Toddler Pillow Here’s a common misconception: pillows need to be super fluffy to be comfortable. Wrong—the key to a comfortable pillow is not solely based on softness, but the way it supports and hugs your head and neck instead. The Little One’s toddler pillow wins the comfortable award due to its coziness, warmth, support, and comfort. All of these benefits in one little pillow! Why we love it Buy Now 6. Best Toddler Pillow for Support Coop Sleep Goods Original Toddler Pillow Having a supporting pillow for your toddler

Top-Rated Parenting Books (2023)

Hannah Connors May 16, 2023

There’s no better way to learn about parenting than to live it. Even so, sometimes new parents want to hear from someone who’s been there and can offer them some advice for the rewarding and challenging journey of parenthood. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful parenting books out there that offer practical advice to support those in their quest to raise happy, healthy, and well-adjusted children. We’ve compiled a list of some best-selling parents’ books that cover a wide range of topics, from understanding healthy brain development to effective communication strategies with children. Here is our top reading list for parents in 2023 that provides practical advice and research-based insights for every stage of parenting. 1. The Whole-Brain Child By Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson This acclaimed book delves into the field of neuroscience and provides helpful advice for nurturing a young child’s developing mind. It offers twelve strategies that integrate the latest research on brain development with techniques to help parents understand and respond effectively to their child’s behaviors and emotions. What is “whole-brain”? The Whole-Brain Way refers to an approach to parenting that helps parents understand how the different parts of the brain work together, and how to effectively integrate them into parenting strategies. It emphasizes the importance of understanding a child’s brain development in order to promote healthy emotional regulation, resilience, and relationship building. Some of the strategies you’ll find in this book include “Move It or Lose It”, which encourages physical activity to shift your child’s emotional state, and “SIFT”, a framework for helping children pay attention to the sensations, images, feelings, and thoughts they’re experiencing. 2. How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk By Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish Recently updated with new suggestions, this book offers strategies for parents to effectively communicate with their children. It covers topics such as handling misbehavior, resolving conflicts, and building positive relationships with children through active listening and empathy. Collaborating with children Central to this book’s message is the idea that you can collaborate with your children to solve problems together, instead of resorting to tactics like yelling, accusing, or shaming. The book will walk you through how to work with your children, not against them, by helping them accept their feelings and understand boundaries. 3. No-Drama Discipline By Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson In this follow-up to “The Whole-Brain Child”, the authors offer a practical and compassionate approach to discipline that promotes healthy brain development in children. They explain the science behind discipline, including how the brain processes emotions and behaviors, and provide strategies for parents to discipline effectively without using punishments or rewards. Discipline with empathy It’s guaranteed that you’ll need to discipline your children sometimes, but doing so doesn’t have to be punitive. In this book, you’ll learn a revolutionary approach to discipline that prioritizes empathy, understanding, and connection. The authors emphasize that discipline should be an opportunity for learning and growth. You’ll learn how to identify your own disciplinary philosophy, help your child navigate through a tantrum, and the 20 discipline mistakes that even the most well-intentioned parents make. 4. Simplicity Parenting By Kim John Payne and Lisa Ross Hoping to combat the overconsumption and frantic pace of life that has become many people’s norm, this book highlights the “power of less” when it comes to raising calm and happy children. It offers strategies for reducing the overstimulation present in your child’s life, helping them reclaim their time and attention so they can flourish. Simplifying your child’s life What does “simplicity parenting” look like? According to the authors, it can include things like reducing the number of toys in your home, creating a home environment that minimizes sensory overload, and establishing predictable routines and rituals. The book also offers advice on how to manage your child’s screen time, as well as the pros and cons of enrichment activities and packing your child’s schedule with them. 5. The Five Love Languages of Children By Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell The “five love languages” were originally developed in 1992 by Dr. Gary Chapman to help couples build stronger relationships. In this book, the same love languages are applied to the parent-child relationship, helping parents understand how their children express love and prefer to receive it. What are the five love languages? The five love languages are quality time, words of affirmation, physical touch, acts of service, and gifts. Not only will this book help you identify your child’s primary love languages, but it can also help you figure out how to speak the languages effectively so your child feels unconditionally cared for and loved. 6. Expecting Better By Emily Oster This data-driven pregnancy guide challenges conventional wisdom and empowers expectant parents to make informed decisions. Oster, an economist (and a mom) uses evidence-based research to debunk pregnancy myths and provide clear, balanced information on topics such as alcohol consumption, caffeine intake, prenatal testing, labor interventions, and more. Empowered choices This book advocates for personalized decision-making and empowered choices rather than blanket rules, a welcome respite from a lot of the pregnancy-related information out there that can feel shaming or overly prescriptive. Oster encourages readers to question and understand the risks and benefits of various choices. With a pragmatic and analytical approach, the book equips readers with the tools to navigate pregnancy with confidence and make choices that align with their own values and preferences. 7. No Bad Kids By Janet Lansbury This guide for parents on understanding and managing challenging behaviors in young children draws on the principles of Magda Gerber’s RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) approach. It emphasizes respectful and empathetic communication with children, setting clear boundaries, and fostering healthy emotional development. Respectful parenting practices Lansbury offers a positive and respectful approach to discipline that promotes a strong parent-child relationship based on trust and mutual understanding. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and validating children’s feelings, while also holding them accountable for their behavior.

Learning Sleep Regressions To Keep Your Sanity

Aubrey Hutson May 14, 2023

There are many things parents discover only after having a baby. For many people, sleep regressions are one of those things. This term refers to instances when your baby — who once had a consistent sleep schedule — is suddenly having trouble falling and/or staying asleep during nap time or bedtime. Today, we’ll cover everything you need to know about your baby’s sleep-wake cycle. Keep reading to learn how to manage sleep regressions, as well as some healthy sleep habits for babies. What Are Sleep Regressions? Sleep regression is a period of time when your baby’s sleep patterns shift—usually during significant developmental milestones. Your baby starts having night wakings and might have difficulty falling back asleep, and the duration can vary from weeks to months. Sleep regressions are similar to wake windows, which are a newly popular concept in the realm of baby and toddler sleep. Wake windows are intervals occurring between naps (aka periods of time when your baby is awake), and sleep regressions are their nocturnal counterparts. Is it common for babies to have sleep regressions? If your little one is experiencing sleep regressions, you might wonder if they are the only ones. And to put it frankly, they’re not. Sleep regressions and other sleep problems are incredibly common during the first three years of life. According to the NIH, about 10% of children reported having sleep problems during their early childhood. When Sleep Regression Occurs, A Timeline While there’s no specific age for sleep regressions, they’re usually associated with developmental milestones occurring during the first year of life. Because of this association with growth, some people lovingly call them ‘sleep progressions.’ Typically, sleep regressions coincide with significant growth spurts or brain development: The 4-Month Sleep Regression When babies are about three or four years old, they begin to produce their own melatonin (aka the hormone responsible for our sleep-wake cycle). For the first time, their sleep cycles are controlled by their own circadian rhythms, and they begin to sleep in patterns similar to that of adults. However, once a baby starts sleeping in cycles of light and deep sleep, they experience a brief wake window (aka a sleep regression) after each cycle. Note: If your baby was premature, the four-month sleep regression might occur after their four-month mark–and that’s totally normal. The 6-Month Sleep Regression At six months of age, your baby is experiencing many changes in sleep, activity levels, and overall development. Not only do they start recognizing familiar faces (yours included), but they begin to react to your emotions. And as your baby starts to explore the world around them, they become more and more stimulated. As you can probably imagine, this impacts their ability to settle down and sleep soundly. The 8-Month Sleep Regression Your eight-month-old is busy–they’re exploring, moving around, and engaging in more sophisticated interactions and play. Their communication abilities are expanding significantly, and they start to improve their gross motor skills, which can be tiring work for them! Additionally, your eight-month-old baby will transition to taking short naps and experiencing longer wake windows. And those shifting schedules make it harder to sleep at night. Additionally, separation anxiety is common around this age, and it prompts increased agitation around bedtime. The 12-Month Sleep Regression When your little one is about 12 months of age, they are making tremendous progress in their development. Not only have they started crawling, but your baby is probably working on their first words–and these developmental milestones are sometimes too stimulating to sleep. Additionally, teething is a huge aspect of their first year of life, and the pain/discomfort prevents some babies from sleeping. Causes of Sleep Regression A 2002 case report indicated that sleep repressions may happen alongside significant developmental changes. However, there may still be numerous reasons why babies experience sleep regressions, and each depends on your baby’s age: Causes of a 4-Month Sleep Regression As we mentioned, the four-month-sleep regression typically occurs when your baby transitions away from newborn sleep patterns. And as you can probably guess, that transition isn’t always smooth sailing. Additionally, there are numerous developmental milestones that affect a four-month-old’s sleep: Causes of a 6-Month Sleep Regression At six months, sleep regressions are usually short-lived. The potential causes are varied, though they might include: Causes of an 8-Month Sleep Regression An eight-month sleep regression might be caused by the following developmental changes: Causes of a 12-Month Sleep Regression Upon your baby’s first birthday, there are many developmental changes happening in their physical and emotional life that might keep them up at night: Signs of Sleep Regression Your baby’s age determines what signs to look for when it comes to sleep regression. Here is a quick overview: Signs of a 4-Month Sleep Regression As we mentioned, there are huge developmental changes happening around four months of age and some babies show signs of worsening sleep as a result. Here’s what to look out for: Signs of a 6-Month Sleep Regression The six-month mark kicks off a multitude of changes in development, activity, and sleep. Sometimes, this developmental progress leads to sleeping difficulties, though they rarely last long. Below are some indicators that your baby might be having a six-month sleep regression: Signs of an 8-Month Sleep Regression It’s not at all uncommon for eight-month-olds to wake frequently during the night. Babies’ sleeping patterns vary greatly, and at 8 months, many are still forming their sleeping habits. Therefore, don’t be surprised if your baby displays signs of an eight-month sleep regression: Signs of a 12-Month Sleep Regression One study found that 72% of 12-month-olds sleep for six or more consecutive hours per night. However, sleep fluctuations are a very normal aspect of development. It’s not unusual for an 11-month-old to be sleeping well, but then have a sleep regression around their first birthday. If you have a 12-month-old at home, here are some signs they might be having a sleep regression: Tips for Coping with Sleep Regressions Sleep regressions are completely normal for your

Unique 1-Month Baby Photoshoot Ideas You Can Do at Home

Dani Wolfe April 28, 2023

Wow, one month already? Time flies when you’re taking care of a newborn baby. Celebrating your baby’s 1-month milestone with a photo-op seems like a no-brainer. But, in today’s hectic world, a professional photo shoot might not be an option. Stop Googling “professional photographer near me,” — we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re doing a baby girl photoshoot or a baby boy photoshoot, we’ve put together a roundup of at-home 1-month baby photoshoot ideas you can do yourself to capture multiple special moments. Grab your phone or camera and get ready to capture some memories with these cute newborn photo ideas for your new baby! 1. Mini Spa Day Photo credit: @precious___pictures on Instagram Here’s an idea for a fun baby photo shoot! We love this take on a baby spa day—plus, it’s hilarious seeing babies posing for adult photoshoots, right? Luckily, when little ones are 1-month old, sleeping is something they do a lot. Taking advantage of being able to shoot fun with your little one is easy peasy at this age. H3: Items needed 2. The Monthly Milestone Blanket Photo credit: @manuelarana on Instagram Milestone photoshoots are very popular, especially these monthly baby blanket ones. This classic at-home photoshoot idea is perfect for capturing your baby at not just 1-month, but their entire first year of monthly milestones. Using this idea keeps all your baby’s photos within the same theme for the next 12 months, making it easy to track baby’s growth. Items needed 3. Classic Gripping Finger Shot Photo credit: @magicmoment_photos on Instagram If you’re a parent, you know that you’re going to want to remember how small your baby’s hands were forever. Finding a fun way to do so can be really special. Getting a photo of their teeny tiny hands in black and white photos wrapped around your finger is a cute way to add some classiness to your photos. You will always be able to look back on that amazing feeling when you capture it in a moment in time. Items needed 4. Close Ups Photo credit: @sophieleaphotography on Instagram It’s the little things we want to remember. Plus, it makes for some easy props—getting photos of your baby’s tiny feet, soft lips, precious eyelashes, and sweet little nose is something you won’t regret doing. Try out this 1-month photoshoot idea by snapping photos of your favorite baby features at all different angles. You’ll thank yourself later for having so many options. Items needed 5. Furry-Best Buds Photo credit: @kylekelleyphotography on Instagram If you have a pet, this photoshoot idea is for you. Your baby’s first furry friends need to be remembered too, right? Getting them involved is a recipe for a paw-fectly cute photo. Need a trick to get your pup to lick baby? Try putting a small amount of your pet’s favorite treats on your little one’s cheek! Using a stuffed animal, such as a teddy bear, is an excellent substitute for a pet if you don’t have one! Items needed 6. Starry Night Photo credit: @dlucenewborn on Instagram One of the best things about this adorable photoshoot is that a sleeping baby is easier to photograph! Even better, moving baby into this unique pose should be easy while they are this young. By simply placing a piece of fabric, soft blanket or scarf under your little angel, it can make them look like they are swinging in a hammock. Just lay them on a flat surface, add in your props, and snap away! Items needed 7. Summer Baby Photo credit: Bryna Marie Photography Does your baby hit their 1-month milestone during the summer? Try out a pool-themed photoshoot to celebrate in the perfect way. Not only is it a fun and unique way to document this milestone, but it’s also an opportunity to get some hilarious and heartwarming photos that you can treasure forever. Feel free to add in some playful props like rubber ducks or fish toys! Items needed 8. Baby Kisses Photo credit: Harley Mitchell Photography Giving your baby kisses is in the job description, might as well give them some extra lovin’ while trying this at-home photoshoot idea. All you have to do is apply some red lipstick on yourself and start giving baby kisses all over. Easy right? Sprinkle around some rose petals and snap that pic in the best lighting possible! Items needed 9. Bookworm Photo credit: Brittany Blevins Photography These photos will be a real page-turner. This cute and quirky baby photoshoot idea not only makes for an adorable photo op, but it’s also a pun on your little one’s many years of learning to come. Pick out some fun glasses frames that match your baby’s face and personality, and stack up a few books to create a cozy and bookworm-ish setting. Items needed 10. Wooden Milestone Cards Photo credit: @thechevertons on Instagram Baby’s milestones are probably something all parents want to find the best way to document. Start off month one by simply setting up a cozy and comfortable space for your baby to lay in natural light, and prop your wooden card right on top of them or beside them. Pro tip: as they get older, shots of the baby biting the card will be so cute! Items needed Pro Tips for an At-Home Baby Photoshoot Good news: there’s no need to be a photographer to have a perfect photo shoot. You’d be surprised at how great your photos can turn out with a few tricks, a fun idea, and even some insight from a pro. Jessica at JW Brown Photography gives some tips on her blog about how to get these precious moments into cute photos—all by yourself. We listed them below: A Unique Way To Capture Your Baby’s Personality It is appropriate to hire a professional photographer at certain times and places, but there’s also something special about creating your own diy baby photoshoot. There are many ways to take baby photos, whether it’s month-by-month with a soft blanket or

Best Parenting Apps for New Moms in 2024

Dani Wolfe April 28, 2023

Becoming a parent and taking care of a baby for the first time can be very overwhelming. Making sure they eat every two hours, have regular bowel movements, and sleep enough (but not too much) is a full-time job. Let’s be real, if there’s an app that can help even the slightest bit, it’s worth looking into. We’ve found some hidden gems in the app world that are helping moms through their pregnancy, tracking baby activities, building baby books, helping with sleep, and so much more. So we put together a roundup of the best baby apps. The Best Apps for New Moms 1. What to Expect Pregnancy+Baby Looking for a good pregnancy app? This is probably the most well-known free app for all things pregnancy-related. With What to Expect, you can follow along on your pregnancy journey with baby-sized comparisons and a visual countdown for each week leading up to your due date. Wondering how big your new baby is? This week, it could be as big as a Kiwi! Moms-to-be also love the daily tips and insights into what you’re feeling according to where you’re at in your pregnancy. Think you’re feeling those first kicks? The app will tell you if what you’re feeling could be kicking, or maybe just some gas instead. Don’t worry, the kicks will come (a bit too hard sometimes). We’re definitely marking this down as one of the best pregnancy apps! Best for: Not best for: Available on: iPhone and Android 2. Baby Tracker by Nara An overall amazing tracker for everything baby. You can log feedings, diaper changes, sleep, medication, baby’s growth and more. And that’s just the beginning–there’s also a timed breastfeeding and pumping feature, a shared hub for family members, and the ability to set reminders for things like the next time you feed, pump, or take medication. This app even tracks mom’s postpartum recovery—something most apps are missing. You are important too, and it’s easy to forget about yourself in the midst of the newborn phase. Moms can track their own activities like water intake, sleep, mood, and journal entries to make sure they are taking care of themselves too. Does your baby have their own routine? Baby Tracker by Nara is also great at personalization. You can add your own unique routines into the schedule like tongue-tie exercises or tummy time and save them as a permanent toggle. Available on: iPhone and Android Best for: Not best for: 3. Glow Baby Looking for an app that does it all AND makes tracking easier? This is it. The Glow Baby app has an easily accessible top banner bar for all your tracking needs so you can click and record in seconds. This all-in-one baby logging app keeps track of everything you need: naps, feeds, solid foods, milestones, diaper changes, and pumping sessions. Moms also love the community tab in the app–it’s like social media without the hassle of setting up a full profile. You’re able to join different groups based on what you’re interested in and make new parent friends. Having trouble getting baby to latch? There’s a breastfeeding group for that. Struggling with postpartum anxiety and depression? You can chat with one million other members in the group who might be going through the same thing or just want to offer support. The personalized summary feature is the real kicker here. Get a complete PDF roundup of all your baby’s data. Everything you need to know about their activities and development is right in your pocket and easily shareable with your provider. Available on: iPhone and Android Best for: Not best for: 4. Baby Monitor Bibino: Nanny Cam Waking up a sleeping baby is the last thing you want to do. But what happens when they fall asleep on the couch and you really have to pee? This app is for modern moms who need a baby monitor wherever and whenever. You can quickly turn two iPhones and iPads into a single baby monitor and go do what you have to. This nanny cam has two-way video and audio, lullaby songs, a white noise machine, and enhanced visibility for low-light conditions. It’s perfect for camping trips, vacations, babysitters, and anywhere you can’t bring your at-home full monitor setup. Available on: iPhone and Android Best for: Not best for: 5. Napper: Baby Sleep Tracker Who knew you’d need help with something as simple as sleep? Figuring out if your baby is overtired, under-tired, or just the right amount of tired is no joke. This life-saving app uses data, science, and a little bit of algorithmic magic to predict your baby’s naps and bedtime. Napper is the solution for many moms on figuring out short naps, frequent night-wakings, and never-ending bedtime routines. The best part of this great app is getting a personalized sleep schedule based on your baby’s natural rhythms – literal gold. You’ll also have access to a library full of sleep sounds including white noise, lullabies, and nature noises that play while your little one sleeps. Help is here—and healthy sleep habits are only a download away. Available on: iPhone and Android Best for: Not best for: 6. The Wonder Weeks When you first become a parent, the harsh reality of baby growth milestones (which can cause regressions) hits you in the face, hard. For example, your child might be experiencing a mental leap if they seem extra clingy and cry more lately. The Wonder Weeks app is here to save the day by guiding moms through the 10 huge leaps from birth to 20 months old. This app gives an overview of each mental milestone sharing tips, tricks, and insights into what’s going on in your baby’s head. Find out when a leap will start, and when it will end. There’s even a countdown timer to anticipate when a leap will finish for your own mental health. Leaps can be one of the most stressful times for moms–but having a tool like The Wonder Weeks

Find Out How These 20+ Toys Can Help Reduce Anxiety in Your Kid

Aubrey Hutson April 26, 2023

No age is discriminated against when it comes to fears and worries, even young children. In fact, the CDC reported that 9.4% of children aged 3-17 years have been diagnosed with anxiety disorder in recent years, and 9.8% of children are diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. While anxiety can be experienced in many different ways, it can generally be described as fear or worry. However, it can also make children irritable, angry, fatigued, sleepless, and have frequent headaches or stomach aches. If that’s the case for your child, you might be able to find a solution that both you and your child will love: toys. Keep reading for a comprehensive list of 20+ toys that can not only keep little hands busy, but may have a huge difference when it comes to soothing anxiety symptoms, ADHD, and other conditions. Our Top Picks for Toys for Anxious Kids: Do you have anxious kids at home? Moms know how tough that can be. However, we’ve also found that these 20+ toys for anxious kids offer some relief: 1. Best Toy for Younger Kids: Sago Brothers Push Pop Bubble Fidget Sensory Toy Is there any kid (or human, to be honest) who does not love popping bubbles? The problem is that mothers know it won’t be long before that loud, popping sound becomes sensory overload. That’s where the Sago Brothers Push Pop Bubble Fidget Sensory Toy comes in. This bubble fidget type of toy was made to offer that same satisfying sensation in a quiet, ultra-safe design. This toy comes in several colors, features silicone-like materials, is easy to clean, and presents no choking hazard. Best for: Not best for: 2. Best Toy for Older Kids: Crags Magnetic Putty The tactile feel of these small, smooth magnetic stones is designed to provide quite the sensory experience in stressful situations. Think of Crags Magnetic Putty like slime but without the mess. (Moms, you’re welcome.) And of course, that crunchy, relaxing sound when manipulating the stones is intended to give off an ultra-soothing, ASMR vibe. Best for: Anxiety & stress reliefOlder kids (and adults – let’s face it)Not best for:Young children due to the choking hazard Not best for: 3. Best Fidget Spinner Toy: Magtimes Rainbow Anti-Anxiety Fidget Spinner For kids who can’t seem to focus, consider a sensory fidget toy like The Magtimes Rainbow Anti-Anxiety Fidget Spinner. Thanks to the durable stainless steel construction, it’s made to prevail throughout whatever your kids put it through. Plus, the fidget ring comes in a variety of colors and options. Best for: Not best for: 4. Best Weighted Blanket: Nest Bedding Luxury Weighted Blanket The elegant, machine-washable comforter is ideal for adults and children alike, and it also makes a great gift. The Nest Bedding Luxury Weighted Blanket features polyester jersey on one side and bamboo-based rayon on the other. As a result, this weighted blanket is made to be smooth, soft, and slightly satiny to the touch. And like most weighted blankets, the weight comes from small, glass microbeads that — thankfully — are designed to not make a sound. Best for: Not best for: 5. Best Budget Toy: Little Kids Fubbles No-Spill Big Bubble Bucket Bubbles are not only fun for anyone, but can be a calming and mindless activity for children of all ages. Not only does chasing after bubbles strengthen fine motor skills, but blowing bubbles promotes oral motor skills, and touching them supports sensory processing skills. Little Kids Fubbles No-Spill Big Bubble Bucket is designed to be leak-free, and there’s no assembly required. Best for: Not best for: 6. Best Toy for ADD: Wuqid Infinity Cube Fidget Toy By keeping your kid busy and away from too much screen time, the Wuqid Infinity Cube Fidget Toy is one of the best fidget toys for kids with ADD. This relaxing, noiseless, compact device is designed to play, flip, and fold to your heart’s content. Therefore, its designed to help children who have a hard time breaking pesky habits like nail biting, pen clicking, and knee shaking. Best for: Not best for: 7. Best Sensory Toy: Crazy Aaron’s Putty Color Shock In one preliminary study regarding stress ball usage, sixth graders who used fidget spinners or toys during instruction independently reported that their “attitude, attention, writing abilities, and peer interaction improved.” And while fidget spinners sometimes cause a visual attention problem (balancing a moving object requires eyes on it), putty does not. Therefore, Crazy Aaron’s Putty Color Shock is designed to entertain kids without distracting them. And of course, the smooth finish makes this terrific sensory play. Best for: Not best for: 8. Best Chew Necklace: Tilcare Chew Chew Sensory Necklace If your child likes to chew on an object as a form of stimming (repetitive or unusual movements or noises), the Tilcare Chew Chew Sensory Necklace is a great way for redirecting their behavior. Made from 100% food-grade silicone, these necklaces are designed to be safe for kids to put in their mouths. And of course, they are latex-, BPA-, phthalates-, lead-, and metal-free. Best for: Not best for: 9. Best Calming Toy: Harkla Sensory Swing for Kids Looking for effective ways to calm your child down? A sensory swing is a great tool to help you do just that. The Harkla Sensory Swing for Kids caters to anxious kids’ desire to sway their bodies. Additionally, it stimulates the structures in the inner ear, which regulates a child’s hypo-reactive vestibular system. And when wrapped around your child like a cocoon, this swing is designed to provide maximum calmness. Best for: Not best for: Here Is Some Additional Toy Recs To Help Relieve Your Child’s Anxiety: Because what kid has enough toys? While you’re already browsing, check out these additional toys for anxious teens or kids: 1. Wobble Board Wobble boards are beloved by kids of all ages—teens included! Your anxious kiddos will love balancing or rocking themselves back and forth. 2. Play-Doh As you can probably imagine, the act

What to Expect at Your Baby’s 13-Week Ultrasound

Hannah Connors April 6, 2023

For expectant mothers, few things feel as exciting as learning more about their growing baby. One important tool for gaining information during your pregnancy journey is the ultrasound, an imaging technique that uses sound waves to create images (also known as sonograms) of the inside of the body. In addition to providing important information about the health and development of your baby, ultrasounds also give you your first glimpses of your new little one, which can be a powerful and moving experience! Healthy women usually receive two ultrasounds during their pregnancy. In this post, we’ll focus on the 13-week ultrasound, which is performed at the beginning of your second trimester. We’ll explore what to expect at this appointment, including whether you can learn the sex of your baby, and how ultrasounds work at different stages of pregnancy. What is a 13-week ultrasound? As the name suggests, a 13-week ultrasound is performed during the 13 week of pregnancy, during the second trimester. During an ultrasound, the technician will apply gel to your abdomen and use a wand-like device called a transducer to transmit sound waves. Despite the cold gel, the procedure is not meant to hurt or make you uncomfortable. Now for the fun part—as sound waves bounce off your baby, images are generated on a screen that can be viewed by the technician. This second-trimester ultrasound can give your healthcare provider a lot of important information about your baby, including its size, shape, and location in your uterus. Your doctor will monitor the baby’s growth, the amount of amniotic fluid, and the placenta position. They can also check for abnormalities of any organs or potential complications. If you didn’t have an early ultrasound at 7 or 8 weeks where your due date was confirmed, this can happen at your 13-week ultrasound instead. Will I learn my baby’s sex at the 13-week ultrasound? Many expectant parents are eager to learn the sex of their baby as soon as possible and believe this to be an important part of the bonding process. If that sounds like you, you may be wondering if it’s possible to discover the gender of your baby at 13 weeks. The answer is maybe (in fact, some people call it a gender ultrasound), although you won’t be able to do so with 100% certainty. Learning my baby’s sex Your doctor’s ability to accurately determine your baby’s sex via ultrasound increases with how far along you are in your pregnancy. At 13 weeks, your baby’s external genitals may be visible on the ultrasound, but the images will probably not be clear enough to determine the sex of the baby with certainty. Some healthcare providers may make an educated guess based on what they see, while others will wait until a later ultrasound to confirm. If you’re interested in learning your baby’s gender, you can tell your doctor before your ultrasound and they will inform you based on the images how confident they are. Nub theory While exploring when and how you will learn the sex of your baby, you may have come across something called the “nub theory”. This is a method of predicting the sex of the baby based on the angle of the genital tubercle, a small protrusion between the baby’s legs that turns into a penis in male babies and a clitoris in female babies. According to this theory, if the tubercle is angled upward at greater than 30 degrees compared to the spine, the baby is likely a male. If the tubercle is angled downward at less than 30 degrees, the baby is likely a female. The genital tubercle begins to take shape between 8 and 9 weeks of gestation, so you may be able to employ the nub theory at your 13-week ultrasound. However, it’s important to note that the nub theory is not foolproof, and its accuracy can vary depending on factors such as the angle of the baby and the quality of the ultrasound images. Some healthcare providers may not use this method at all, preferring to wait for more definitive information. How ultrasounds work at different stages of pregnancy Ultrasounds serve different functions throughout your pregnancy, and they can also be performed differently. Here’s what you can expect during each trimester. First trimester A first-trimester ultrasound, which can be performed as early as 7 to 8 weeks after conception, is usually performed transvaginally. This means that the transducer is inserted into the vagina to get a closer look at the developing embryo. This method allows for clearer images during the early stages of pregnancy when the embryo is very small. The first trimester ultrasound can provide important information about your pregnancy, such as the baby’s size and location, and the presence of a heartbeat. It can also be used to confirm the due date and screen for potential complications, such as ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. Your first ultrasound is also where you will find out if you’re having a single baby, twins, or another set of multiples. The first trimester is also when you can expect to receive a maternal blood test during an ultrasound. These tests measure two substances found in pregnant women’s blood: pregnancy-associated plasma protein A and human chorionic gonadotropin, which are measured to determine if the fetus is at greater risk for a birth defect or genetic disorder. Second trimester The next ultrasound, occurring during the second trimester, is usually performed abdominally. This means that the transducer is placed on the outside of the abdomen, and sound waves are sent through the abdominal wall to create images of the developing fetus. This method is more comfortable for most women and allows for more detailed images of the baby. Your second-trimester ultrasound can occur at 13 weeks, or it can occur later in your pregnancy, around 18 to 20 weeks. At either stage, your doctor will look for any birth defects or abnormalities related to your baby’s brain, heart, bones, or kidney. This scan can usually help