DFWBaby 2026

2026

CRACKING THE BABY SLEEP CODE

D A L L A S -F O R T W O R T H ’ S H Y P E R-L O C A L R E S O U R C E FOR ALL THINGS PREGNANCY AND BABY

WHEN MORNING SICKNESS GETS SERIOUS

THE MAKING OF A MOM PREPARING FOR MORE THAN JUST THE BABY

SARAH ROSE SUMMERS

MOM LIFE AFTER MISS USA

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PUBLISHER/ A D V E R T I S I N G D I R E C TO R Joy Niebes Wommack A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R Lauren Niebes E D I TO R I A L Managing Editor Amanda Collins Bernier

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Contributing Writers Heidi Butler Jennifer Casseday-Blair Beth McGee D I G I TA L Digital Manager/ Publishing Coordinator Susan Horn

➽ ABOVE // The transition to motherhood can change your identity, relationships and priorities in ways you never expected.

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ART Contributing Designer Sean Parsons

FEATURE 28 A Mom Is Born We prepare for baby. But how do we prepare for motherhood?

DEPARTMENTS

23 Mom Next Door / Sarah Rose Summers Combs The former Miss USA on her greatest title yet

CRIB NOTES 9 More Than Morning Sickness How to recognize hyperemesis gravidarum, understand its impact and get the help you need 13 Finding Rest What pediatricians want parents to know about routines, regressions and sleep training 17 Childcare Crossroads Daycare, nanny or nanny share? How to know what’s right for your family PHOTO COURTESY OF SARAH ROSE SUMMERS COMBS; ISTOCK (2)

ADVERTISING Account Executives Alison Davis Nancy McDaniel

REAL MOMS

20 Sound Advice / Ask an Expert How do I start my baby on solids?

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26 Briefs / Crowned Picks Our Mom Next Door’s local favorites and mommy must-haves

A D M I N I S T R AT I O N Business Manager Leah Wagner

BABY STEPS 32 Better Together Local groups helping moms connect, share and thrive

COLUMNS 6 First Words / A Small World Babies have a way of bringing us back to what’s simple

ON THE COVER Cover kid: Soleil, 5 1/2 months old, from Richardson Photography: Nick Prendergast Hair/makeup: Lana Adams with Kim Dawson Agency

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REMEMBER SITTING IN THE SMALL APARTMENT where we lived before my first son was born, looking around and wondering how I was possibly going to fit a baby—and everything that came with him—inside it.

As my due date crept closer, every new piece of baby gear seemed to make the walls close in a little more. I worried that we didn’t have enough space, or the sprawling, Pinterest-worthy nursery I had imagined. Like any new mom, I wanted to give my baby the world. I just wasn’t sure there was enough room for it.

But here’s the thing: My baby didn’t care. He didn’t know that our home was tiny or that his nursery wasn’t perfectly decorated. His world was much simpler than mine—it was the crook of my arm and the sound of my voice. It was a full belly, a dry diaper and being rocked back to sleep.

Yes, it’s true, babies need a lot (anyone who has ever tried to leave the house with one can attest to that!). But they also need so much less than we convince ourselves they do.

Of course, that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to figure out. If you’re in the thick of it now, you probably have a running list of questions: How do I get this baby to sleep? Who will care for them when I go back to work? Where do I find other moms who understand why getting out of the house before 10am now feels like an Olympic event?

And somewhere among all those practical questions is an even bigger one: Who am I now?

That’s what we hope to help with in this issue. Inside, you’ll find advice for navigating sleep, guidance on choosing the right child care for your family and local groups where you can find your village. We also explore something no registry can prepare you for: the shift in identity that comes with becoming someone’s mom.

There is a lot to think about in these early years—and yes, there is an astonishing amount of gear. But babies have a wonderful way of bringing us back to what’s simple. Their world starts small: your arms, your voice, your love. And then, little by little, it grows.

You don’t have to give your baby the whole world. For a little while, you already are it.

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More Than Morning Sickness

ISTOCK

How to recognize hyperemesis gravidarum, understand its impact and get the help you need WORDS HEIDI BUTLER

W

OMEN OFTEN HEAD INTO PREGNANCY expecting joyful milestones—hearing their baby’s heartbeat for the first time and feeling those tiny kicks. What most don’t expect is to spend months unable to keep food or water down, confined to the bed and wondering how they’ll make it through the day.

But this was the reality for Madelyn, a DFW-based midwife (who asked that her last name be withheld). For her, pregnancy wasn’t filled with glowing anticipation—it became a daily fight that she says left her feeling “hopelessly imprisoned in my body.”

Madelyn would have fits of vomiting or dry heaving that left blood vessels broken across her face. “The harder symptom for me was the near-constant nausea,” she recalls. “Every thought was infiltrated by the awful feeling of being nauseous.”

This wasn’t just morning sickness. Madelyn experienced hyperemesis gravidarum, or HG, a debilitating pregnancy complication that can have a profound impact on both a woman’s physical and mental health.

We spoke with Dr. Clara Telford, an OB-GYN at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, and Dr. Elizabeth Marron, a DFW-area psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health and perinatal care, about the warning signs of HG, available treatment options, and where women can find the support they need.

WHAT IS HG?

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting which can lead to dehydration, weight loss and nutritional DFWBABY | 2026

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crib notes / M O R N I N G S I C K N E S S deficiencies. Depending on the severity, it could even be life-threatening and could cause long-term health issues for both Mom and Baby.

Hyperemesis gravidarum can often be hard to spot at first because it develops gradually and many women assume it is normal morning sickness. Nausea and vomiting are common during early pregnancy, and for most women, those symptoms improve by the end of the first trimester. While unpleasant, most moms-to-be are still able to eat, drink and stay hydrated with simple dietary changes and home remedies.

But women with HG experience persistent nausea and vomiting that can make it nearly impossible to keep food and fluids down. HG often persists well beyond the first trimester, and for some women, continue throughout the entirety of their pregnancy.

SYMPTOMS OF HG INCLUDE:

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• Severe, persistent nausea and vomiting more than three times a day • Weight loss, typically greater than 5% of pre-pregnancy body weight • Dehydration that may require IV fluids or hospitalization • Electrolyte imbalances caused by repeated vomiting and fluid loss • An inability to keep food or liquids down for extended periods of time Diagnosing HG begins with your doctor assessing the pattern and severity of your symptoms, reviewing your medical history, and tracking changes in your weight. They will also look for signs of dehydration and may order lab work to check for electrolyte imbalances and other markers of physical strain.

THE REAL IMPACT OF HG

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Hyperemesis gravidarum affects far more than your stomach. It can take a toll on nearly every aspect of your life.

Physically, HG can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. Many women experience dizziness, headaches, extreme fatigue and muscle weakness.

For Madelyn, the illness made even the simplest daily tasks feel impossible. “I couldn’t get out of bed … I couldn’t maintain a full-time job with my symptoms and medication. Cooking, driving, exercising and maintaining commitments felt undoable.”

But HG doesn’t just impact the body, it can also take an enormous emotional toll.

“The emotional and mental toll of HG was the hardest part,” Madelyn says. “I wasn’t just staying in bed because I was physically ill, but also because I was extremely depressed. I couldn’t figure out how to enjoy life while nausea always hummed in the background of every experience.”

HOW IS HYPEREMESIS GRAVIDARUM TREATED?

The good news is that help is available. While there’s no cure for hyperemesis gravidarum, early treatment can make a significant difference and help prevent dehydration, weight loss and other complications.

For women with milder symptoms, treatment may start with simple strategies like eating small, frequent meals, avoiding foods or smells that trigger nausea, or trying remedies such as ginger or acupuncture. If symptoms become more severe, your provider may recommend prescription anti-nausea medication, IV fluids to treat dehydration or, in some cases, hospitalization for nutritional support.

Every pregnancy is different, so treatment plans are tailored to each woman’s symptoms and may change as the pregnancy progresses.

The goal isn’t to simply “push through” the sickness. It’s to keep you hydrated, nourished and feeling well enough to get through each day as safely and comfortably as possible.

GETTING HELP FOR HG

Hyperemesis gravidarum often develops early in pregnancy, typically between four and six weeks, as pregnancy hormones rapidly rise.

This is often well before your first prenatal appointment. If severe nausea and vomiting are affecting your ability to eat, drink, or function, don’t wait for your first scheduled visit. Contact your OB-GYN’s office right away to request an earlier appointment and discuss your symptoms.

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms could be HG, visit hyperemesis.org and look for the HELP (HyperEmesis Level Prediction) Score under the site’s tools section. The free questionnaire asks about your symptoms over the past 24 hours and generates a score that can help you understand whether your symptoms fall into the mild, moderate or severe range.

Telford advises seeking immediate medical attention if you’re unable to keep food or water down for more than 24 hours, experience changes in your mental status, or vomit blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.

It’s just as important to pay attention to your emotional well-being. Living with constant sickness can leave women feeling isolated, overwhelmed or hopeless. According to Marron, it’s time to seek additional support if feelings of depression, anxiety or guilt begin interfering with your ability to function or if you find yourself losing interest in the things you normally enjoy. If you’re experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or feel you can’t continue the pregnancy, seek help immediately.

Remember, HG is a medical condition— not a reflection of your strength or ability to cope. With early treatment and the right support, many women go on to recover and deliver healthy babies.

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crib notes regressions only last a week or two before the baby is back on track, it’s best to stay as consistent as possible during this time, so you don’t fall into habits you conquered during sleep training.

4 MONTHS

Finding Rest Baby sleep isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s what pediatricians want parents to know about routines, regressions and sleep training WORDS

ISTOCK

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’LL NEVER FORGET PACING BACK and

forth with my firstborn in the wee hours of the morning, wondering if I would ever successfully transition her to the crib asleep. It was so easy for her to fall asleep in my arms, but getting her to sleep independently felt like rocket science. Conversations with friends in my new moms group played like a loop in my head. It seemed like everyone else’s baby was a better sleeper than mine.

Questions like “what am I doing wrong?” or “will I ever sleep again?” are frequent thoughts when it comes to baby sleep. With a schedule that evolves as your baby grows and a multitude of voices offering input, sleep can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re exhausted too.

That’s why we’ve called on Dr. Diana Dickschat of Forest Lane Pediatrics in Frisco and Dr. Sarah Troendle, of Richardson Pediatric Associates to give expert insight that’s approachable and manageable. Here, we dig into sleep expectations by age, different sleep training methods, and wisdom to decipher what’s best for your family.

BETH MCGEE

SLEEP EXPECTATIONS BY MONTH

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, infants 4–12 months need at least 12–16 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period. This sleep will be spread out between naps and bedtime. For example, at 5 months, you’ll aim for 3–4 hours of daytime sleep, but by 14 months, most kids are only sleeping 2–3 hours during the day.

For newborns, it’s not uncommon to sleep all day and be up all night. They aren’t expected to sleep through the night as they have a small stomach and need to refuel frequently.

Here, we’re highlighting sleep expectations and common sleep struggles at 4, 9, and 18 months. While each baby is different, these are months we often see developmental changes or sleep regressions. A sleep regression is defined as a short-term interruption to sleep, which can appear in both naps and nighttime sleep.

Usually, sleep regressions are seen around big developmental milestones (think: rolling, crawling, walking) or changes in routine (think: travel, holidays, starting daycare.) While most sleep

You’ve made it out of the newborn fog! While some babies may be able to sleep through the night at this age, going 4–5 hours is completely normal. If your baby is not sleeping through the night, don’t panic! Troendle points out that she often sees breastfed babies go slightly shorter stretches, while formula fed babies might be able to sleep a little longer.

At around 4 months, babies experience a change in sleep patterns. Like adults, babies now cycle through light sleep, deep sleep and REM. When the cycle is over, the baby may wake.

That’s why now is a great time to start building the foundation for good sleep habits. Try not to let your baby fall asleep in your arms; putting babies down drowsy but awake at nap or bedtime allows them to learn how to fall asleep on their own. If they’re able to fall asleep on their own, then they will have the skill to be able to put themselves back to sleep when they wake in the middle of the night.

You may also see short naps or false starts at bedtime. Dickschat advises a consistent and calming routine that might involve feeding, reading, rocking, singing or snuggling before placing the baby in the crib drowsy but awake. This is also a helpful time to reassess your baby’s wake windows.

At 4 months, 1.5–2 hours is a good amount of time between naps. If you’re not on this schedule, don’t worry—just slowly lengthen the wake window by a few minutes each day until you find the sweet spot for your baby.

9 MONTHS

By this age, baby has changed quite a bit. They are eating solids, sitting to play, and maybe even popping some teeth. Sleep expectations have also changed. The addition of solid food to your baby’s diet can help prolong sleep stretches due to a fuller tummy. Plus, new mobility skills like sitting to play and crawling can tire your baby out.

But all these fun changes can also be accompanied by sleep struggles. With the ability to pull up comes the ease of standing in the crib. Be sure to set your crib to the lowest mattress setting and play it cool. Giving a big reaction to standing in the crib can encourage babies to keep doing it. Teething can be another sleep disrupter. During the day, try giving the baby a cold washcloth to chew on. You can always talk to your pediatrician about pain relievers for nighttime relief. Try to stay consistent with nighttime routines and waking practices, but remember that you are always allowed to comfort your child.

Around 80% of babies are able to sleep through the night at 9 months of age, Dickschat says, and if they are (fingers crossed!) you may get around 10 hours of uninterrupted nighttime sleep.

This will vary baby to baby, with some closer to 8 DFWBABY | 2026

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crib notes / R E S T hours and some closer to 12 hours. Most babies this age are also still taking two to three naps a day.

18 MONTHS

Once you reach toddlerhood, your little requires 11–14 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

By the year-and-a-half mark your baby should be sleeping around 12 hours at night. While most 18-month-olds will take one nap, some might take two shorter naps. Troendle sees most of her patients taking a 1 to 3-hour nap at this age.

By 18 months, your child’s personality is much more prevalent than before, which can complicate bedtime. Developing new skills such as walking, climbing and other motor skills can sometimes get sleep off track. You may find your child trying to climb out of the crib!

Many parents see their toddlers experiencing separation anxiety or employing stalling tactics (think: one more book, cup of water, another stuffy, etc.) To combat some of these bedtime challenges, try to fill your child’s awake time with movement, outdoor light, and stimulating activities. Stay consistent with a bedtime routine and shoot for bedtime between 7–8pm.

SLEEP TRAINING METHODS

If what you’re currently doing at night works for your family, you don’t have to change anything, but if you’re ready to start sleep training, most experts recommend starting when the baby is 5–6 months old. By 6 months, babies understand that crying often equates to being picked up.

When the time comes for more structured sleep routines, there’s lots of options—and opinions. Dickschat reminds parents there is no one-size-fits-all method and not every baby is the same. “Patience, grace—for both parents and baby—and persistence are all really important,” she says, and advises speaking with your child’s pediatrician at a well baby visit to see when it is appropriate for your child to start sleep training.

This will be based on how your baby is feeding, growing and developing.

GENTLE SLEEP TRAINING

This is a no tears method, where the focus is placed on a consistent bedtime routine. The same activities in the same order each night cue the baby’s brain to recognize the transition from day to night.

Try dimming the lights, giving a bath, providing a feeding and doing a book, song or cuddle before saying goodnight. If the baby cries, the parent picks up or comforts them, but puts them back down still awake.

CHAIR METHOD

The parent sits in a chair or stands by the baby’s crib until they fall asleep. Each night, the parent moves farther from the crib while still being within baby’s sight. The key is providing minimal comfort. Parents keep their physical distance but offer verbal assurance. Over time, the baby can fall asleep with less and less interaction.

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“PATIENCE, GRACE—FOR BOTH PARENTS AND BABY— AND PERSISTENCE ARE ALL REALLY IMPORTANT.” —DR. DIANA DICKSCHAT

More lenient methods such as Gentle Sleep Training and the Chair Method can take weeks to months, depending on the child.

the same parents do the same exact routine and get different results, as so much of sleep training is dependent on the baby.

CRY-IT-OUT

WHEN SHOULD SLEEP CONCERNS BE DISCUSSED WITH A PEDIATRICIAN?

After the bedtime routine, the baby is put to bed drowsy but awake. Parents then leave the room and allow the baby to cry for as long as it takes for them to self-soothe and fall asleep. With this method, a baby often falls asleep from exhaustion. While sometimes controversial or seemingly harsh, this method can work in as little as 3–4 days. For some kids this is most effective, as seeing mom and realizing she’s not picking them up can make them irate.

FERBER/CHECK-AND-CONSOLE

This is similar to cry-it-out, but involves parents going back into the baby’s room to soothe the baby after a specified period of time. In the beginning, the adult checks on the baby after a few minutes of crying. Try sticking with a simple routine for check-in, such as a pat and reassuring phrase that reminds the baby they are OK and it is time to sleep. Gradually the parent extends the time between check-ins until the baby learns how to fall asleep on their own. Most babies take 7–10 days to adapt to this method.

Some families discover, often through trial and error, that they need to do a combination of methods or adapt them slightly to fit their child’s temperament. As a mom of four, Troendle reminds her patients “kids are not machines or computers, they are people with personality, and sometimes you cannot be as exact as you want to be.”

WHAT METHOD IS BEST FOR YOU?

Success will look different for each family, depending on your sleep goals. Twelve hours of uninterrupted sleep is great, but fewer wakeups and a more predictable, low-stress bedtime is also a big win. If you enjoy the extra cuddles at night and don’t mind waking with your baby, you don’t have to sleep train at all. As the parent, you know your baby and family best.

On deciding when, or if, to sleep train, start by considering others in your home: Who else tries to sleep at the same time? Is there another child next door or even sharing the room who is going to be woken up? Does the baby still sleep in the parent’s room? Is the baby ready to be moved to a nursery? Don’t be afraid to get creative with room arrangements.

Also take into account your baby’s temperament and personality. In Troendle’s experience, more strong-willed kids do better with a cry-it-out method for clear boundaries. For more laidback children, the Ferber Method with parent reassurance is often successful. She’s seen

Troendle says the 6-month mark is a good time to assess baby’s sleep. If they are not sleeping at least eight hours at this age, make an appointment with your pediatrician. Habits of co-sleeping and snoring are other reasons to talk to your doctor. And always consult your pediatrician if your baby has a fever, is showing signs of illness, or is not acting like themselves. Also if your baby is not growing well, not feeding well during the day, or having decreased wet or dirty diapers, be sure to connect with your pediatrician.

There’s also plenty of things that can disrupt sleep that don’t require a visit to the pediatrician.

Dickschat says travel, teething and time changes are all sleep impacters. While frustrating, these are normal. During travel, try to keep the routine as close to normal as possible. Bring your own sound machine, blackout shades or consider investing in (or borrowing!) a slumberpod to make your baby’s sleep environment similar to what they are used to. During time changes, slowly move the baby’s naptime and bedtime up (or down, depending on whether it’s Fall Back or Spring Forward) by 10 minutes each day for the week leading up to the time change. This shift can help your baby adjust gradually. And remember, it’s very normal for sleep to suffer any time your baby is learning a new skill or going through a big developmental change.

Although easier said than done, oftentimes this just requires patience and consistency for your child to get back on track.

REST ASSURED

Spoiler alert: my first baby that couldn’t sleep anywhere but my arms? She eventually learned to sleep on her own. For us, the answer was the Ferber Method. But when our second came along, we took a slower, gentler approach. Recognizing we couldn’t rinse and repeat the same sleep process served as a lesson we continue to learn as parents of two wonderful, very different individuals– each kid is uniquely wired with specific needs.

In the early months and years it’s easy to get discouraged by sleep, but it’s important to remember that sleep isn’t always linear; there will be bumps along the way. Sleep regressions (as frustrating as they may be) do not last forever, and finding a sleep routine that works for your family is more important than achieving a perfect schedule. Rest assured, time spent caring for your baby is never time wasted.

YOUR JOURNEY IS OUR PRIORITY. From pregnancy to childbirth, we will be with you all the way.

Thank you for making us part of your journey. Medical City Dallas, Medical City Lewisville and Medical City Plano are proud to be named DFWChild Magazine’s Best Hospital to Have a Baby.

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crib notes

Childcare Crossroads Daycare, nanny, or nanny share? How to know what’s right for your family W O R D S J E N N I F E R C A S S E DAY-B L A I R

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EAVING YOUR BABY WITH SOMEONE else for the first time feels a little like holding your breath and hoping your heart will catch up. And the weight of choosing the “right” kind of care for your child feels both deeply practical and unexpectedly emotional.

You’ll hear plenty of practical advice about cost comparisons, waitlist timelines, pros and cons. But what people don’t always talk about is the weight of it all. Because this isn’t just about childcare; it’s about trust. It’s about your routines, your work, your child’s day-to-day experience, and yes, your own peace of mind while you’re away. The truth is that most parents don’t land on a choice because it’s perfect. They land on one because it fits their real life the best.

While every family’s priorities are different, most childcare arrangements fall into three categories: daycare, a private nanny or a nanny share. Each option comes with its own strengths, tradeoffs and daily realities. Here’s what parents should know before deciding.

ISTOCK

DAYCARE: STRUCTURE, SOCIALIZATION, AND A PREDICTABLE ROUTINE

If you crave structure, daycare might feel like a natural fit. Your mornings become a rhythm—pack the bag, drop off, head to work. Most of these programs follow a consistent daily schedule filled with group activities, meals, naps and playtime.

“Center-based childcare offers children the opportunity to engage in both intentional learning experiences and meaningful social interaction every day,” says Amy Jackson, chief franchise officer and early learning strategist at Primrose Schools, which has multiple locations across Dallas-Fort Worth.

For infants in daycare, a typical day follows a controlled but flexible rhythm built around feeding, play and sleep. At drop-off, you’ll check in with a caregiver about your baby’s last feeding, sleep and any notes for the day, then your baby settles into the classroom alongside a small group of other infants. Caregivers are juggling multiple babies at once, so while your child is absolutely cared for, the attention is shared. Bottles are given on a schedule, diapers are changed frequently, and naps happen either on demand or at set times as your baby grows. In between, there are short periods of engagement like tummy time, songs, sensory play and caregiver interaction. At pickup, you’ll typically receive a report giving you a snapshot of how your baby spent their day in a safe, structured setting.

As little ones grow, environments like daycare centers can also help them

build the skills they’ll need later, providing predictable routines, nurturing teacher-child relationships and age-appropriate learning experiences.

That said, structure can also be rigid. Daycare operates on set hours, and late pickup fees are very real. If your job has unpredictable hours or you don’t have backup help, this can become stressful quickly. There’s also the reality of group care. Illness spreads faster, and your child gets less one-on-one attention than they would in a more individualized setting.

Still, for many families, daycare offers something invaluable: consistency. You know what each day will look like, and for children and families who thrive on routine, that predictability can be a huge benefit.

And here’s something many moms don’t realize until they’re in the thick of it: infant spots are limited. Not every daycare accepts babies under 12 months, and the ones that do often fill up fast. In DFW especially, it’s common to get on waitlists months in advance. New parents can follow these tips for locking in a spot: • Start early: Begin researching and joining waitlists during pregnancy. It may feel premature, but for infant care, it’s often necessary.

• Get on multiple waitlists: Apply to several that fit your location, budget and preferences to increase your chances of getting a spot when you need it.

• Be flexible with your start date: If you have some wiggle room like parental leave, help from family, or remote work, you may be able to bridge the gap until a spot opens.

• Ask about priority enrollment: Some centers give priority to siblings of enrolled children, employees of partner companies, or families willing to transition from infant to toddler programs.

• Look beyond traditional centers: Licensed home daycares sometimes have more infant availability and smaller group sizes, which can be appealing if you’re open to a less traditional setting.

PRIVATE NANNY: FLEXIBILITY AND PERSONALIZED CARE

Now imagine a different kind of morning with no drop-off, no packing lunches in a rush, no wrestling shoes onto tiny feet before 8am. That’s the DFWBABY | 2026

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crib notes / C H I L D C A R E

NANNY SHARE: A MIDDLE GROUND WITH SHARED BENEFITS

Somewhere between daycare and a nanny sits the nanny share. It’s a hybrid approach that’s becoming increasingly popular among families who want both affordability and personalized care. In a nanny share, two (sometimes three) families share one caregiver. The children are typically cared for together in one of the homes, rotating or staying consistent depending on the agreement.

The biggest advantage is cost sharing. You get many of the benefits of a nanny like smaller group size, more flexibility, individualized attention without carrying the full financial responsibility. Your child also gains built-in socialization, similar to daycare but in a smaller, more controlled setting.

Sharing a nanny can significantly reduce costs, but it also requires compromise. Families should agree on expectations around routines, discipline, meals and scheduling before getting started. It’s also important to establish which household will serve as the employer and handle payroll and tax responsibilities.

A typical day for an infant in a nanny share blends the comfort of home with the perk of 18

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CARE AT A GLANCE FEATURE

NANNY SHARE

DAYCARE

NANNY

Average Cost

$$

$$$$

$$$

Flexibility

Low

High

Medium

Socialization

High

Low

Medium

One-on-One Care

Low

High

Medium

another little companion, usually starting with staggered drop-offs and a quick update between parents and the nanny. Mornings might include side-by-side floor play with soft blocks, rattles, music and plenty of chatter while the nanny rotates attention between babies. As the day unfolds, there’s often a shared rhythm to naps, with both babies settling into cribs or designated sleep spaces, followed by snack time or bottles when they wake. Getting out of the house is common, whether it’s a stroller walk or a trip to the park. While there’s slightly less one-on-one time than with a private nanny, your baby gains early social exposure. At the end of the day, you’ll hear about how the day flowed, what your baby ate, how they napped and the small, sweet moments they experienced alongside their little buddy.

Paige Burlew, owner of Lone Star Nannies, recommends that both families interview candidates together and agree on the hire before moving forward. She also advises making sure both households have similar childcare timelines and expectations. For many families, she says, a nanny share opens the door to personalized care that might otherwise be out of reach.

WHAT ABOUT DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIALIZATION?

This is one of the biggest concerns parents wrestle with, and the answer isn’t as one-sided as it might seem. Daycare naturally offers social exposure. Your child learns group norms, cooperation, and communication skills early.

But beyond those day-to-day interactions, the overall environment plays a significant role in how children develop.

With a nanny, socialization becomes more intentional. Playgroups, library story times and neighborhood meetups fill that gap, but they require effort and planning.

COST SNAPSHOT: WHAT YOU’LL LIKELY PAY IN DFW

According to Care.com, average caregiver rates in DFW are about $20.51 per hour as of August 2026.

Fort Worth’s childcare weekly rate is $777, and in Dallas parents will pay $870 for a typical 40-hour work week. That gives a helpful baseline when comparing daycare versus in-home care options.

While budget matters when it comes to childcare, these costs aren’t always apples to apples. Daycare is typically the most affordable option, but availability can be tight and

waitlists long. Private nannies are often the most expensive, but they offer the highest level of customization. A nanny share reduces individual cost while maintaining many nanny benefits.

But don’t stop at tuition or salary. You have to factor in: • Backup care needs • Commute time • Flexibility (or lack of it) • Emotional stress and daily logistics • Sometimes the “cheaper” option ends up costing more in time, energy or missed work.

QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD BE ASKING

Before you commit, pause and ask the questions that don’t always make it onto a checklist. In fact, even the process of evaluating options can reveal a lot about quality and fit. “First impressions matter, so parents should remember to trust their gut while also asking thoughtful, practical questions throughout the evaluation process and when touring centers,” Jackson says.

From there, consider: • What does a typical day actually look like in this setting?

• How are illnesses, holidays and unexpected schedule changes handled?

• What’s the caregiver turnover like?

• How will my child’s milestones and development be supported?

• How flexible is this arrangement as my needs change?

• And maybe the most important question of all: Does this choice make your daily life easier or harder?

Burlew emphasizes the importance of communication and fit when hiring. She says, “Can the nanny have a tough conversation or accept criticism? Will they be able to bring their concerns forward to you and ask for feedback regularly? These are important factors to consider. If they can’t answer this question or show avoidance behavior to feedback or tough conversations, this will be a nanny who will quit as soon as they feel any conflict arising.”

FINDING YOUR RIGHT FIT

At the end of the day, this decision is less about finding the perfect option and more about finding the right alignment with your schedule, your child’s temperament, your support system and your tolerance for unpredictability.

And whatever you choose, it doesn’t have to be forever. What works in infancy might not work in toddlerhood. So instead of chasing the “ideal,” aim for something simpler: a setup that helps your family function, breathe, and enjoy the everyday moments in between.

Because childcare isn’t just about who watches your child; it’s about how your whole life runs because of it.

ISTOCK

biggest draw of a private nanny: your life gets built into the care, not the other way around.

With a nanny, your child stays in their own environment—their naps happen in their own bed, and their meals follow their preferences.

Their day can flex based on moods, milestones, or your family’s schedule.

With a nanny, your baby’s day feels like a natural extension of home, starting with a smooth handoff. From there, the schedule follows your baby’s rhythm with consistent oneon-one attention through floor play, reading, singing and developmentally appropriate activities. A day might include a stroller walk or time outside, and depending on your preferences, outings or meetups for added socialization. As your baby grows, the day often evolves to include more structured play and interaction. When you return home, you’ll usually get a detailed recap of feeds, naps and little moments from the day, giving you a clear picture of how your baby spent their time in a familiar environment.

“Families who are passionate about maintaining their child’s routine will prefer a nanny because the parents have full control over the environment and daily schedule,” says Rosalind Prather, CEO and founder of Trusting Connections, a full-service family care and nanny agency that serves the DFW area.

But that flexibility comes with responsibility.

You become an employer. That means managing payroll, setting expectations, navigating time off, and creating a clear working relationship. If your nanny calls in sick, there’s no built-in backup system. And while your child receives dedicated attention, they may have fewer opportunities for peer interaction unless you actively create them through playdates, classes, or outings.

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THE EXPERT Paige Vidrine Speech-Language Pathologist and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant at The Feeding Connection, Saginaw & Keller; thefeedingconnection.com Q. What do I need to know about starting solids

with my baby?

A. There’s a lot of info and advice out there when it comes to introducing solids, and it can all feel overwhelming. Should you start with purees? Skip the spoon-feeding in favor finger foods (also known as baby-led weaning)? Really, what’s most important is that the food is safe and that your baby’s ready based on their age and ability.

Babies are ready for solids when they have good head control, be able to sit alone or with minimal help, and interest in what you are eating. The transition can feel nerve-wracking but remember that babies learn through play and having fun. Think of the first introductions of solids as sensory play. Baby may first explore with his eyes, nose and fingers before he’s ready to take a taste.

Lots of learning is done through watching you eat, so make sure Baby is included in family mealtimes. See your baby’s behaviors in the high chair as communicative. If he is leaning in with mouth open, give him a taste!

If he is turning away and fussing, put the spoon down and let him explore it at his own pace.

If your little one doesn’t enjoy something the first, second, or third time you offered it, keep trying. You might be surprised that the green beans that were rejected the first 10 times you offered them are now suddenly his favorite. Research shows that repeated exposures are one of the biggest predictors of acceptance.

Breastmilk or formula remains the primary source of nutrition through Baby’s first year. Continue offering the same amount and number of feeds per day when starting solids. Their intake may gradually decrease near age 1 and intake of solids increases, but it doesn’t have to; follow your baby’s lead. At age 1, cow’s milk can be introduced in place

of formula/breastmilk and breastfeeding can be weaned or continued as long as Mom and/or Baby wish.

HERE ARE SOME PRACTICAL TIPS FOR THE TRANSITION TO SOLIDS: • Offer small portions. Large amounts of food can feel overwhelming. You can always give more if Baby eats it all and wants more.

• Don’t know how to cut or prepare a certain food for Baby? A quick Google search of “how to serve ____ to my 9-month-old” will help.

• Keep a list of the top nine allergens (milk, eggs, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, sesame and soy) on the fridge. Aim to introduce each of these early and often (multiple exposures of each before the first year). Early introduction reduces your baby’s risk of developing an allergy.

If any reactions occur, reach out to your pediatrician for next steps.

• Remember that gagging is normal and common at this stage. Gagging is different than choking—gagging moves food forward on the tongue to protect the airway. Choking has no sound and means something is lodged in the airway. Before starting solids, review infant choking first aid and place an infographic of the steps on the fridge as a reminder. This will help you feel confident and prepared in case of an incident.

• Appetites vary day to day and week to week. Your job is to decide what nutritious options to offer your baby, and they decide how much of that he eats.

WHEN TO SEEK HELP If Baby is having a hard time progressing past a certain texture, is gagging or vomiting excessively, or if you are feeling stuck or stressed, reach out to a feeding specialist, such as a speech-language pathologist or occupational therapist. If Baby has any weight concerns or genetic or developmental disorders or delays, a feeding specialist should be part of their care team. They can help with oral motor skills (how the lips, tongue, jaw and cheeks work together), swallowing safety, positioning, and more. A care plan will be created to help your baby progress to the happy, healthy eater you desire him or her to be.

Have a parenting question you’d like our experts to answer? Message us on Instagram @dfwchildmag or email editorial@dfwchild.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FEEDING CONNECTION; ISTOCK

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real moms.

Summers Combs is keeping things real during her second pregnancy, even sharing a social series called “Reasons I’ve Cried During Pregnancy.”

RÉSUMÉ TITLE

Influencer, former Miss USA LIVES IN

Dallas

HAILS FROM

Omaha, Nebraska AGE

31

SPOUSE

Conner Combs, college sweetheart ALMA MATER

Dual degrees in child development and strategic communication from TCU CHILDREN

Son Caden, 2½ WHERE TO CONNECT

Instagram @sarahrosesummers

mom next door

PHOTO COURTESY OF SARAH ROSE SUMMERS COMBS

Sarah Rose Summers Combs

Her best title yet INTERVIEW AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

LIFE LOOKS A LITTLE DIFFERENT THESE DAYS FOR FORMER MISS USA Sarah Rose Summers Combs. At home in Dallas, she’s more likely to be chasing after her 2½-year-old, Caden, than walking a stage—and soon, she’ll have another little one to love. With a baby girl due in September, Summers Combs is soaking up Caden’s sweet preparations for big-brotherhood while navigating a pregnancy shaped, in part, by the challenges of her first. She opens up about finding her footing as a mom, sharing Caden’s story and the lesson she wishes every mother would take to heart.

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real moms / M O M N E X T D O O R DFWChild: You wear a lot of hats—former Miss USA and child life specialist, advocate, influencer, mom. Which one feels most like you?

Sarah Rose Summers Combs: All of them.

Growing up I was in all the extra curriculars; in college I couldn’t decide on a degree, so I did two. I’ve always liked being busy and I’m grateful I don’t have to pick one. With the influencer space, I get to be flexible. I work a lot at night after Caden goes to bed. I’m thankful that I get to be a mom first but still do all the other fun stuff.

You originally planned on a career as a child life specialist. How did social media enter the picture?

When I won Miss USA in 2018 it was just the beginning of kind of “influencer life.” I gained a following, and then when I crowned the new Miss USA the next year I was like, OK, I can go back to the hospital setting or I can ride this wave, and I can still get the fulfillment of working with families through volunteering. And so that’s what I did, and I never looked back. There are times that I miss working in the hospital setting with families but then Caden came and I do that [type of work] every day. I truly believe my background in child development was all in preparation to be his mom.

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Caden was born with a rare abdominal wall defect. Can you share more about that?

I learned at my 20-week anatomy scan that he was going to be born with something called an omphalocele, which is where some of his abdominal organs were being formed outside of his abdomen. They told me to come back in six weeks for an echocardiogram of his heart and see if there were any other birth defects, then sent me home said, ‘Don’t stress, there’s nothing you can do.’

At that appointment they also told me I’d need to have a C-section because the omphalocele could rupture in a vaginal delivery. I remember driving home and my husband asked how I felt about that I said, ‘I didn’t even think about me.’ That’s what was best for the baby, so I didn’t think twice. You go into mommy bear mode really quick. It’s not about you anymore.

How is Caden doing now?

He is tiny but mighty! A lot of his obstacles are a mix of his omphalocele and also that he was a preemie. He’s so fun and he’s gotten this goofy little personality. And that’s part

of why I share so much of his story—when we got that diagnosis I remember I was up all night looking things up. And now if you search omphaloceles, Caden likely pops up on Instagram and you can see that he’s a happy little guy, he’s a little athlete. Sure, we have our challenges, but I want to bring hope to other families who get that diagnosis because it’s really scary.

And now Baby No. 2 will be here in September!

How has this pregnancy been emotionally?

It’s so different. The first half of Caden’s pregnancy, ignorance was bliss. I was like, ‘Let’s take all these bump photos, think about all the fun things!’ And this pregnancy, I almost felt like I was waiting for the other shoe to drop. Then after the anatomy scan when we found out that our baby girl was all cleared that went away a little bit, but I’m still nervous about having another pre-term delivery. It’s this balance of trying to shut off those fears but also being aware of the risks.

What’s are you most looking forward to about becoming a family of four?

Having a girl, I’m so excited for the little ruffle butts and tutus (laughs). I’m excited to see my husband become a girl dad and to see Caden become a big brother. He’s already so sweet—he’ll hug and kiss my belly. The other day he brought a pacifier and put it in my belly button and said, ‘Baby!’ It’s adorable.

If you could go back, what advice would you give yourself as a first-time mom?

I would give encouragement, because that’s what I needed most. I probably didn’t need advice as much as I needed to be given a hug and told I was doing a darn good job.

And what would you tell another new mom?

My best advice is to not compare. Everyone’s journey is different. Even if you coordinated your pregnancy with your best friend and you’re thinking you’re going to do it together, you are different. Your babies are going to be different. It’s true that comparison is the thief of joy. If you compare your motherhood to someone else’s, you’re either going to feel lesser than someone or better than someone—and neither of those are what we're called to do.

“I PROBABLY DIDN’T NEED ADVICE AS MUCH AS I NEEDED TO BE GIVEN A HUG AND TOLD I WAS DOING A DARN GOOD JOB.”

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real moms / B R I E F S

Crowned Picks Sarah Rose Summers Combs’ local faves and mommy must-haves

INTERVIEW AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

E N D O R PH I N BO OS T

When she gets some me time—and when she’s not uncomfortably pregnant— Summers Combs loves trying different fitness classes around DFW. She uses ClassPass, which gives members access to a variety of partner studios, making it easy to mix up her workouts.

Her favorites include Session Pilates, Class Studios, SoulCycle and Barry’s. “Getting to release those happy endorphins is very helpful, especially postpartum,” she shares. For her, it’s as much about resetting mentally as it is staying active.

2

When they want to get out of the house, Summers Combs heads to the Frog Pond Water Park at Farmers Branch Aquatics Center with Caden. She calls the expansive splash pad a “hidden gem,” saying it’s the perfect place for little ones to cool off and burn some energy. “It’s enormous and so fun in the Texas heat,” she says. Best of all, Caden can’t get enough of the water.

Frog Pond Water Park // 14032 Heartside Pl., Farmers Branch; 972/919-8720; farmersbranchtx.gov

4

PARK PICKS

While her neighborhood park gets plenty of use, these are the two Summers Combs says are worth the drive. She loves Coffee Park for its covered playground, which keeps slides and play equipment cooler for little ones on hot Texas days.

Curtis Park is another favorite, where Caden enjoys visiting the ponds and watching the ducks.

Coffee Park // 3400 Northwest Pkwy.; University Park; uptexas.org Curtis Park // 3500 Lovers Lane, University Park; uptexas.org

MOM MY MU S T-H AV E

Summers Combs swears by the My Brest Friend nursing pillow. “My lactation consultant got me hooked, and now any time I’m going to a baby shower and that’s not on the registry I’m like, ‘Do you already have this? Because you don’t know you need it, but you need it.’” The foam pillow fastens around your waist, providing lumbar support and eliminating any gap where Baby might slip. // mybrestfriend.com; $48.99 Available locally at: BabyBliss // 6721 Snider Plaza, Dallas; 469/232-9420; shopbabybliss.com Pottery Barn Kids // 3220 Knox St., Dallas; 214/522-4845; potterybarnkids.com Target // Multiple locations; target.com 26

2026 | DFWBABY

5 E A S Y O UTI N G S For easy outings with a little one, Summers Combs loves the Doona, or as she jokes, “the transformer car seat stroller. It’s an infant seat, and then you push a button and the wheels pop out.” She says it’s especially handy for quick errands, appointments and any time you don’t want to lug a separate stroller. // doona. com; starting at $550 Available locally at: BabyBliss // 6721 Snider Plaza, Dallas; 469/2329420; shopbabybliss.com Nordstrom // Multiple locations; nordstrom.com Scheels // 4450 Destination Dr., The Colony; 469/8547500; scheels.com Target // Multiple locations; target.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF SARAH ROSE SUMMERS COMBS, DOONA, MY BREST FRIEND, CITY OF UNIVERSITY PARK

1 3

S PL A S H TIM E

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2026 | DFWBABY

IS

BORN

We spend months preparing for labor, delivery and life with a newborn. But what prepares a woman for how motherhood will change her? words AMANDA COLLINS BERNIER

DFWBABY | 2026

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and the hospital tour, where I learned what to expect during labor and delivery.

I took a breastfeeding class and learned all about latching and feeding cues. I read the books, assembled the gear, packed my hospital bag and checked all the boxes that promised to get me ready for bringing home my baby.

And by the time my first son was born, I felt as prepared as I could be to care for him. What I wasn’t quite prepared for, though, was motherhood.

It’s a distinction Stacey Ritter has seen again and again in more than a decade of supporting new mothers. Ritter, a postpartum doula with Little Lilacs Birth Services in the DallasFort Worth area, says moms-to-be tend to put nearly all of their preparation into birth and comparatively little into what comes afterward.

“There is a gap between being pregnant and becoming a mother,” Ritter says.

That gap can be hard to understand until you’re in it: The baby won’t sleep. Your body feels unfamiliar. You’re recovering from birth while figuring out feeding and caring for a newborn who needs you around the clock.

Ritter enters homes during what she calls a period of “pure, raw vulnerability.” She has watched women who are confident and capable in virtually every other area of their lives suddenly question whether they’re equipped for what motherhood is asking of them.

“Everything about her being feels different,” Ritter says. And there’s a name for that transformation: matrescence.

THE IDENTITY SHIFT

Often compared to adolescence, matrescence describes the physical, emotional, psychological, relational and identity transition that happens when a woman becomes a mother.

“Nearly every part of her life is changing at once ... her body, brain, relationships, responsibilities and sense of who she is,” says Libby Marler, a Fort Worth licensed professional counselor certified in perinatal mental health.

“The difference is that we expect adolescence to be awkward and emotionally complicated, while we often expect women to move into motherhood naturally and happily.”

But the transition can be complex. A woman can desperately want to become a mother and still miss the independence she had before. She can adore her baby and miss her career. She can feel grateful for the life she has and grieve pieces of the one she left behind. Those conflicting feelings can be especially jarring when they don’t match the version of motherhood a woman expected to experience.

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2026 | DFWBABY

“The guilt usually comes from the belief that a good mother should feel fulfilled by motherhood all the time,” Marler says. “But every meaningful life transition includes both gains and losses.”

Marler encourages mothers to think in terms of “both-and”: I love my baby, and this is harder than I expected. I wanted to become a mother, and I miss parts of my old life. I am grateful, and I am exhausted.

“Matrescence is really the process of integrating the woman you were before motherhood with the mother you are becoming,” she says. “The goal is not to erase your previous identity and replace it with ‘Mom.’” A WHOLE NEW ROLE

For Aly Whitmore, becoming a mother meant stepping away from a career she had once been certain about. The DFW-area mom of two had been a teacher for five years before having her first son. She had always wanted to teach, she says, but she wanted to be a mom even more. And when she became pregnant, leaving the classroom felt like an easy decision.

But when her former colleagues returned to school that fall and she didn’t, Whitmore realized she had no idea what her own career would look like anymore. She didn’t miss teaching, and she treasured the time at home with her son, but about six months into being a stay-at-home mom, another realization set in.

“I needed a creative outlet and a productive job of some sort outside of motherhood,” she says.

Today, Whitmore owns a creative marketing agency in Southlake and recently welcomed her second son. She doesn’t regret leaving teaching— or the months she spent at home with her first baby. Instead, she found a way to make room for both motherhood and a part of herself that still needed work and creativity.

That shift can look different for every mom.

A career that once mattered deeply may suddenly feel less important. A woman who always imagined staying home may find herself craving work.

And then there are the changes that are harder to see from the outside.

Joy Gibson knew more about caring for children than most first-time mothers. Before

WHEN EVERYTHING CHANGES

That mental load can reshape relationships, too. Couples who spent months discussing names, nurseries and birth plans may be less prepared for what happens when both are exhausted, one is physically recovering and suddenly there is a long list of things that need to be done—and noticed—around the clock.

“Couples spend a lot of time preparing for the baby but very little time preparing for what sleep deprivation, feeding difficulties, physical recovery and unmet expectations may bring out in their relationship,” Marler says.

Friendships can change, too. The freedom to make plans, stay out late or even have an uninterrupted conversation can suddenly feel like something that belonged to another version of your life.

And sometimes, the shift happens almost immediately after the baby arrives. For nine months, Ritter says, a pregnant woman is the focus of attention. People ask how she’s feeling.

ISTOCK

THERE WAS THE CHILDBIRTH CLASS

having her daughter, the Dallas mom spent 10 years working as a professional nanny. She knew all about routines, milestones and potty training.

What she couldn’t know was how different it would feel when she was the mother.

What surprised her most was “the mental load of being a mom and how there really is no ‘off ’ switch to thinking about everything related to your child each day,” Gibson says.

“As a nanny I could flip a switch when I was clocked out.”

That constant responsibility is another piece of the identity shift. Even when someone else is holding the baby, feeding the baby or putting the baby to bed, Mom may still be the one mentally keeping track of what comes next.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF BIRTHING CLASS

The Bloom Center for Motherhood in Allen offers a Maternal Mental Health Class designed to prepare expecting and new moms and their partners for some of the emotional changes that traditional childbirth classes may not cover. The two-hour class, which can be taken virtually, addresses the emotional realities of pregnancy and postpartum, identity shifts, changes in relationships, signs that a mom may need additional mental health support and where to find help. It also includes guidance on creating a postpartum plan for emotional wellness. // bloomcenterformotherhood.com

They notice her changing body. They check in as the due date approaches.

Then the baby arrives, and “it feels like you are off to the side as everyone ohhs and ahhs over the baby,” Ritter says. “Very few, if any, asking how she is doing.”

As a postpartum doula, Ritter sees families during those first vulnerable weeks, when a new mom is often sleep-deprived, physically recovering and adjusting to the constant needs of a newborn.

What a mother often needs in that moment, Ritter says, isn’t another visitor who wants to hold the baby. It’s someone willing to notice and care for her. That can be decidedly unglamorous: bringing lunch, washing bottles, folding laundry or taking an older child out for the afternoon. But those small acts can give a new mother something she may suddenly have very little of—space to rest, recover and adjust to her new role.

PREPARING FOR MOTHERHOOD

Can you actually prepare for such a massive transition? Not completely. No class can tell a woman exactly how motherhood will change her. But Heena Khan believes we can do a

nected to herself while her identity is expanding.”

Preparing for motherhood may have less to do with predicting exactly how you’ll feel and more to do with understanding that you may not feel like the same person afterward.

BECOMING MOM

Ritter tells new mothers that there is a fog in those early weeks—and that it does lift. Slowly, amid the feedings and diaper changes and days that blur into nights, women begin to feel more like themselves again. much better job of preparing women for the But that doesn’t necessarily mean returning possibility that it will.

Khan, a licensed professional counselor to exactly who they were before. “You are a certified in perinatal mental health, founded new person because you are a mother, but you The Bloom Center for Motherhood in Allen are also still the same person who created that after seeing the same gap throughout her work baby,” Ritter says. with pregnant and postpartum women.

Khan says that may be one of the things we “We prepare women for labor. We prepare misunderstand about the transition. Becomthem for breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, diapering a mother isn’t simply a matter of adding ing, sleep schedules, car seats and nursery esa baby to the life a woman already had. “In sentials,” Khan says. “All of that preparation is many ways, you are becoming a new version important. But we often don’t prepare parents of yourself,” she says. for the psychological and emotional experiYet women are often expected to move ence of becoming a parent.” through that change alAt The Bloom Center, Khan developed a most instinctively. Khan maternal mental health says we tend to assume class that asks expectant motherhood should come parents to consider some naturally, rather than recof the questions that don’t ognizing that becoming a typically make it onto a mother involves learning hospital checklist: How and adaptation—not only might my relationships learning how to care for a change? What happens if baby, but figuring out who motherhood doesn’t feel you are now that you are the way I imagined? What responsible for one. parts of my old life might I miss? How will I know if That can mean grievI need help? ing parts of your old life “I think we need to even when being a mom move from preparing is something you desperwomen only for birth to ately wanted. It can mean preparing them for befeeling less certain of coming,” Khan says. yourself for a while. And Some of that prepara— HEENA KHAN it can mean discovering tion can begin with practithat the way you imagined cal conversations. Before motherhood would feel doesn’t quite match the baby arrives, Khan and Marler both enthe reality. courage couples to talk specifically about what “You don’t have to love every moment to be support will look like—not simply assume they’ll figure it out once they’re sleep-deprived a good mother,” Khan says. “You don’t have to and caring for a newborn. Who will handle feel instantly bonded. You don’t have to lose which responsibilities? How will each parent yourself completely to be a devoted mother.” get a break? Who can they call when they’re There will always be things about motheroverwhelmed? hood that can’t be taught in a class or checked Women can also think ahead about the off a list before the baby arrives. But knowing pieces of themselves they want to hold onto. that your identity may shift and that compliMarler encourages expectant mothers to cated feelings can be part of that transition is identify a few things that make them feel like another kind of preparation. themselves—whether that’s seeing friends, “Motherhood is not a destination where you spending time outside, exercising when they’re suddenly become the person you’re supposed able, returning to work or simply having an to be,” Khan says. “It is an ongoing process of hour when no one needs anything from them.

“Those things are not selfish extras,” she says. becoming, adapting, grieving, growing and dis“They are part of helping the mother remain concovering who you are in this new role.”

“I THINK WE NEED TO MOVE FROM PREPARING WOMEN ONLY FOR BIRTH TO PREPARING THEM FOR BECOMING.”

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the regular meetings, held the second and fourth Saturdays of the month at Fellowship Dallas, the group hosts playdates, moms’ nights out, crafts, service projects and family events. themom. co/groups/fellowshipdallas

L O C A L G R O U P S H E L P I N G M O M S C O N N E C T, S H A R E A N D T H R I V E MOTHERHOOD is a whole lot easier when you have people to do it with. Whether you’re looking for stroller walks, playdates, a workout buddy or just another mom who gets it, these DFW groups can help you find your people.

ALLEN

Allen Early Childhood PTA Family-focused organization building community through playgroups and social events, for families with children ages 0–5.

Weekly playgroups and regular socials. Cost $25.50 per family annually. aecpta.com Cottonwood Creek MomCo Church-based moms group with support for both preschool and school-aged parenting stages.

Meets at Cottonwood Creek Church on various Fridays.

Membership $120 per year. cottonwoodcreek.org/momco-2

ARLINGTON

Arlington Mothers of Multiples (AMOM) Monthly meetings, organized playdates, moms’ nights out, family events and online support 32

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communities tailored to mothers raising twins, triplets and higherorder multiples in Arlington, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, Alvarado and Burleson. Meets the first Tuesday of the month at the Pleasant Ridge Church of Christ in Arlington at 7pm. amom.club

CARROLLTON

MomCo at Bent Tree & First Baptist Church at The Fields A collaborative faith-based moms community that gathers for speakers, fellowship and creative activities. Twice monthly on Thursdays at 9:30am. Annual dues $95. themomco.org

DALLAS

Armstrong-Bradfield Preschool Association A neighborhood-based organization connecting families with young children in Armstrong

and Bradfield Elementary zones through social activities, playgroups and service opportunities. Playgroups and community activities throughout the year.

Annual membership $150. armstrongbradfield.com Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas A nonprofit support organization providing resources, referrals, educational programs and community connections for families raising children with Down syndrome. Programs are offered for all age groups; locations and activities vary and may include park meetups, music classes, and more. downsyndromedallas.org Fellowship Bible Church Dallas MomCo A moms group featuring breakfast, speakers, childcare and small group discussions. Beyond

Lakewood Early Childhood PTA (LECPTA) A community organization for Lakewood families with children from birth to elementary school, offering age-based playgroups, volunteer opportunities, family and adult-only events. Annual membership $45. lecpta.org North Dallas Early Childhood PTA A parenting and social support organization for parents with children under age 6. The group holds monthly meetings with free childcare, playdates, moms’ night out events, and community service opportunities. Annual dues $60. ndecpta.wildapricot.org Northwest Bible Church MomCo A church-based moms group focused on connection, encouragement and parenting support for moms who are expecting through parenting school-aged kids. Meets every other Friday at 9am. themom.co/groups/northwestbible Park Cities Baptist Church MomCo A faith-centered moms ministry offering mentorship, guest speakers and fellowship opportunities

ISTOCK

Better Together

Highland Park United Methodist Church Groups This church offers several community programs for mothers, including The Motherhood Collective, a group for moms raising babies through elementary-age kids; First-Time Moms Groups for parents with newborns up to 1-year-olds; and Preschool Moms’ Meetups. Dates vary. hpumc.org

FITNESS GROUPS for mothers of young children.

Meets twice a month on Monday mornings, plus special events held throughout the year including toy and clothing swaps, playtime and more. pcbc.org/momco Preston Hollow Early Childhood Association This family-focused organization offers parenting speakers, educational events, holiday parties and monthly “Playtime in the Park” for parents with children up to age 5.

Annual membership $65. pheca.org Rosemont Early Childhood PTA A longstanding early childhood PTA focused on diversity, meaningful friendships and community engagement through playdates and family activities. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month at different locations in Oak Cliff, and playgroups meet fourth Saturday of the month, plus seasonal events and volunteer opportunities throughout the year. Annual membership $40. recpta.org Square One A mentoring and support ministry specifically designed for firsttime mothers with infants under 5 months navigating early motherhood. The 7-session program is held seasonally. watermark.org/ ministries/square-one The Nest A faith-based gathering for moms of children age 5 months through fifth grade, focusing on parenting encouragement, spiritual growth and practical motherhood support. Meets monthly during the school year. watermark.org/ministries/the-nest Wilshire MomCo A faith-based mothers group offering brunches, inspirational speakers, crafts and childcare during meetings. For moms with children 5 and under.

Meetings are Friday mornings during the school year. wilshirebc.org/connect/momco

FORT WORTH

Fort Worth Mothers of Multiples Support for moms raising twins, triplets and multiples. The group offers monthly meetings, playdates, parenting advice. Annual membership $5. Meets third Tuesday of the month at 7pm in Fort Worth and surrounding cities. fwmom.org

FOTP – NFW Campus MomCo A welcoming faith-based moms ministry that organizes meetings including fellowship, support and childcare. Weekly meetings every other Wednesday at 9:30am plus moms’ nights out, playdates, bible study, Pokeno nights and book club meetups. Membership $37 per year. themom.co/groups/ fotp-nfw-momco Lighthouse Fellowship MomCo Meet up with moms in all stages of parenthood at this faith-based group. Learn from speakers and demonstrations and have honest conversations with other moms seeking connection. Childcare provided. Contact group for meeting schedule and details. themom.co/ groups/lighthousefellowship Mid-Cities MOM For parents of multiples providing education, connection and community for families raising twins, triplets and more. Meets the fourth Thursday of the month at 7pm at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital. Membership $25–$35.

FRISCO

Frisco Moms Care A nonprofit moms organization supporting local families through volunteerism, donations and community outreach. Volunteers meet for community service projects, some that are child-friendly so kids can give back too. fmcares.org MomCo & MomCo 2.0 Frisco MomCo, for mothers of babies and young children on the first and third Wednesdays of the month at 9:30am, and MomCo 2.0, for mothers of school-age kids, on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at 9:30am. Groups include teachings, discussion, mentoring, creative activities and childcare.

Annual membership $140. friscofirst.church/momcofrisco

IRVING

Momentum Mothers A faith-based support community for single mothers offering encouragement, fellowship and connection through gatherings.

Meets the second Friday of the month at 6:30pm at Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic Church, with childcare offered. holyfamilychurch.net/single-mothers-1

FIT4MOM A fitness community designed for moms, offering stroller-friendly workouts, group classes and connection. Classes, schedules and fees vary by location. Burleson/Crowley, Carrollton/The Colony, Fort Worth, Highland Village, White Rock/Lakewood. fit4mom.com THE MOM WALK COLLECTIVE A group helping moms make friends through stroller-friendly walks, playdates, coffee dates and other social events. Local chapters set their own schedules and gathering spots; find your chapter on Instagram. Allen, Arlington, Carrollton, Dallas, Denton/ Argyle, Fort Worth, Frisco, Grapevine/Southlake, Highland Village, McKinney, Plano/Richardson, Prosper. themomwalkcollective.com

MCKINNEY

Crosspoint MomCo A mentoring and fellowshipfocused group for moms with children under age 6. Meetings feature coffee, a potluck breakfast, crafts, speakers, devotions, and table discussions, held the second and fourth Fridays of the month at 9:30am at Crosspoint Church. Childcare available. crosspointmckinney.church/momco Moms Club of McKinney A community group open to moms of kids of all ages who live in McKinney, hosting two activities a week including playdates, book club, after school activities, service projects and more.

Annual membership $25. mckinneymoms.blogspot.com

PLANO

Moms Connection Faith-based motherhood group through Chase Oaks Church, providing support, encouragement and friendship for moms with babies through kindergarteners. Meets twice monthly on Thursdays at 9:30am at the Legacy Campus. Childcare is offered. Annual membership $75. chaseoaks.org/moms Prestonwood Baptist Church MomCo This group meets every other week during the school semester at the Plano Campus for coffee, a light breakfast, biblical encouragement and connection with other moms. Meetings held Wednesdays at 9:30am.

Childcare provided. Annual membership $35. prestonwood.org/ connect/children/momco

RICHARDSON

All Moms This inclusive Richardson community offers twice-monthly morning and evening gatherings

with speakers, workshops, and free childcare, plus playdates, book clubs, Moms’ Nights Out, and more. Bi-monthly meetings are held at Arapaho United Methodist Church. allmoms.org FUMCR Mamas A faith-based moms ministry through First United Methodist Church Richardson offering guest speakers, service projects and supportive community connections.

Meets the first Monday of the month at 9:30am. Childcare available. fumcr.com/women_mamas

COLLIN COUNTY

Plano Area Moms of Multiples (PAMOM) A group for parents in Plano and beyond with twins, triplets and multiples offering education, community events and playgroups for families throughout the North Dallas and greater McKinney area.

Meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7pm at the Medical Center of Plano. Annual membership $5. pamom.org

TARRANT COUNTY

DFW Mom Society Offering connection through meetups, events and playdates held throughout the Tarrant County area—from toddler swim time to mall walks to moms' nights out. Most events are free but some may have an admission fee. dfwmomsociety.com Grapevine, Colleyville, Southlake Moms League (GCS Moms League) A moms organization connecting families through playdates, educational speakers, book clubs, fit clubs, moms’ nights out and community service opportunities Ongoing social events take place throughout the year in Grapevine, Colleyville, Southlake and Keller areas. Annual membership $95. gcsmomsleague.org DFWBABY | 2026

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THE BABY DIRECTORY // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Baby

THE

DIRECTORY

Beyond baby shower gifts, new and expecting parents need trusted resources to help them prepare for—and enjoy—life with their little one. From local healthcare providers and child care options to lactation support and more, this directory puts essential services at your fingertips, so you can spend less time searching and more time soaking up the snuggles.

CHILD CARE Rigley Primrose School Locations in Dallas, Frisco and Plano 469/791-9131 primroseschools.com Why You’ll It: Our Balance Learning Approach brings the early education of modern research and learning science to inspire curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion for love of learning. See ad on page 6.

DENTISTS Austin R. Church DDS & Associates Pediatric Dentistry Locations in Fort Worth, Keller and Saginaw 817/741-6100 churchdds.com Why You’ll It: Our mission is to provide excellent dental service and positive experiences and to do so morally and ethically to the glory and honor of God. See ad on page 21.

Duffy Dental Ranch 100 Hardeman Blvd.

Justin, TX 76247 940/278-0909 duffydentalranch.com Why You’ll It: We make dental visits fun and stress-free with compassionate pediatric care, a welcoming office and a focus on healthy, happy smiles.

See ad on page 11.

Just for Grins Family Dentistry and Orthodontics 466 N. Main St. Keller, TX 76248 817/741-4455 justforgrins.com Why You’ll It: From baby’s first smile to adult care, enjoy convenient, compassionate dentistry, orthodontics and infant tongue and lip tie releases under one roof.

See ad on page 25.

Linda A. Steele, DDS, Pediatric Dentistry 225 E. State Hwy. 121, Ste. 150 Coppell, TX 75019 972/315-3355 drlindasteele.com Why You’ll It: For 30+ years, our

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2026 | DFWBABY

team has provided compassionate dental care, helping children grow from infancy to adulthood with confidence and a lifelong love of dentistry. See ad on page 19.

HOSPITALS Baylor Scott & White Health Locations in Dallas, Fort Worth, Frisco, Grapevine, Irving, McKinney and Rowlett bswhealth.com Why You’ll It: You deserve the best, and your labor and delivery experience should be as unique as you and your new bundle of joy.

See ad on page 7.

Children’s Health Locations in Dallas and Plano 844/424-4537 childrens.com Why You’ll It: From little scrapes to big scares, Children’s HealthSM is a top-ranked pediatric hospital with nationally recognized experts dedicated to making life better for children. See ad on page 8.

Medical City Healthcare Locations in Arlington, Dallas, Decatur, Fort Worth, Frisco, Irving, Lewisville, McKinney, Plano and Weatherford 972/401-8750 medicalcityhealthcare.com Why You’ll It: From pregnancy through postpartum, Medical City Healthcare delivers personalized maternity care, experienced providers and compassionate support for growing families. See ad on page 15.

Texas Health Resources Locations in Allen, Arlington, Cleburne, Dallas, Denton, Flower Mound, Fort Worth, Frisco, HurstEuless-Bedford, Mansfield, Plano, Rockwall and Stephenville texashealth.org/moms Why You’ll It: With 23 hospitals across North Texas, Texas Health offers compassionate, quality maternity care for you and your growing family.

See ad on page 4.

MOMMY & ME CLASSES Gymboree Play & Music Locations in Frisco and Southlake 817/421-9300 gymboreeclasses.com Why You’ll It: This is where children ages 6 weeks to 5 years build lifelong skills through play and parents build lifelong friendships.

See ad on page 21.

NANNY + SITTING SERVICES Kensington Nanny Service 1341 W. Mockingbird Ln. Dallas, TX 75247 972/246-8879 mykensingtonnanny.com/dallas Why You’ll It: Busy families trust Kensington Nanny Service to match them with vetted, developmentfocused nannies who are day-one ready and built for long-term fit.

See ad on page 25.

PHYSICIANS Cook Children’s Locations in Aledo, Allen, Arlington, Bedford, Burleson, Carrollton, Celina, Denton, Flower Mound, Fort Worth, Frisco, Granbury, Grapevine, Haslet, Hurst, Keller, Lewisville, Little Elm, Mansfield, McKinney, North Richland Hills, Plano, Prosper, Southlake and Trophy Club 682/885-4000 cookchildrens.org Why You’ll It: Childhood is full of milestones and surprises. Through every step of growing up, Cook Children’s is here with expert pediatric health care you can trust.

See ad on page 12.

David Nichols, MD 480 W. Southlake Blvd., Ste. 133 Southlake, TX 76092 817/347-1250 docnich.short.gy/bestpediatrician Why You’ll It: I have been caring for children for 25+ years. I enjoy meeting the needs of every child, but have a particular interest in newborn care.

See ad on page 11.

Forest Lane Pediatrics Locations in Dallas, Frisco and Mesquite 972/284-7770 forestlanepediatrics.com Why You’ll It: From first newborn visits to every milestone, Forest Lane Pediatrics provides boardcertified pediatric care, awardwinning lactation support, Saturday appointments and trusted guidance for growing families.

See ad on page 22.

Full Quiver Wellness Sanctuary 7701 Eldorado Pkwy., Ste. 500 McKinney, TX 75069 214/247-6276 fullquiverwellnesssanctuary.com Why You’ll It: Private-pay pediatric care with unrushed, one-on-one visits focused on thoughtful guidance, lasting relationships and helping children thrive from newborn through young adulthood. See ad on page 20.

Shine Pediatrics and Wellness Center Locations in Fort Worth, McKinney, Midlothian and Richardson 469/333-1543 shinepediatrics.com Why You’ll It: Shine provides intentional, whole-child pediatric care from birth through early adulthood— empowering families through education, thoughtful conversations and compassionate, individualized care. See ad on page 2.

UT Southwestern Ob/Gyn and Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic Professional Office Building 2 5939 Harry Hines Blvd., 5th Floor, Ste. 300 Dallas, TX 75390 214/645-3838 utswmed.org/locations/pob2/obgynmfm-clinic Why You’ll It: UT Southwestern delivers expert Ob/Gyn care through a growing team of specialists in obstetrics, maternal-fetal medicine, neonatology and gynecology—all in one clinic. See ad on back cover.

UT Southwestern Ob/Gyn at Park Cities 8611 Hillcrest Rd., 3rd Floor

THE BABY DIRECTORY // SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Dallas, TX 75225 214/692-3100 utswmed.org/locations/park-cities/ med-ctr-park-cities-obgyn Why You’ll It: UT Southwestern partners with women to provide compassionate, personalized Ob/Gyn care, serving North Dallas with expert physicians and a welcoming approach.

See ad on back cover.

UT Southwestern Ob/Gyn and Maternal-Fetal Medicine at Las Colinas 6121 N. Hwy. 161, Ste. 200 Irving, TX 75038 469/647-4040 utswmed.org/locations/las-colinas/ med-ctr-las-colinas-obgyn Why You’ll It: UT Southwestern Las Colinas offers expert Ob/Gyn care, treating everything from routine visits to high-risk pregnancies and complex gynecologic conditions—all in one location. See ad on back cover.

Whole Child Texas 5677 W. Spring Creek Pkwy., Ste. 105 Plano, TX 75024 214/842-9510 wholechildtexas.com Why You’ll It: Holistic pediatric care in DFW: combining modern medicine, nutrition and lifestyle to support your

child’s lifelong health and wellness.

See ad on page 19.

PRODUCTS Backyard Fun Factory Locations in Frisco, Justin and White Settlement 469/210-6706 backyardfunfactory.com Why You’ll It: DFWChild readers will love our custom California Redwood playsets, designed for active outdoor play, growing families, imaginative adventures and unforgettable backyard memories.

See ad on page 27.

The Cutest Little 6090 Campbell Rd., Ste. 106 Dallas, TX 75248 972/214-5011 thecutestlittle.com Why You’ll It: The Cutest Little is a boutique offering thoughtfully curated baby, kids and family gifts, stylish essentials and charming finds for every special milestone.

See ad on page 27. little orange fish 601 S. Main St., Ste. 103 Grapevine, TX 76051 817/416-7774 littleorangefishkids.com

Why You’ll It: little orange fish is a fun-filled children’s boutique with a large selection of girls’ and boys’ styles.

Now offering matching Mommy & Me! See ad on page 11.

The Pharma-C Company Serves the Dallas-Fort Worth area 262/284-6600 pharma-c.com Why You’ll It: Parents love our trusted first aid, personal care and wellness products that make caring for their families easier every day.

See ad on page 16.

SERVICES A Miracle to Behold 3D/4D Ultrasound 6624 N. Riverside Dr., Ste. 300 Fort Worth, TX 76137 817/851-2501 amiracletobehold.com Why You’ll It: At A Miracle to Behold, you are able to “meet” your baby. We use 3D/4D ultrasound technology, allowing you to see your baby live.

See ad on page 10.

Amon Carter Museum of American Art 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd.

Fort Worth, TX 76107 817/738-1933 cartermuseum.org

Why You’ll It: Itty-Bitty Art is a monthly event for children 24 months and younger with their favorite adult.

Learn tips and tricks for enhancing curiosity and imagination.

See ad on page 21.

Baby Latch Love 8105 Rasor Blvd., Ste. 261 Plano, TX 75024 469/225-3938 babylatchlove.com Why You’ll It: Helping families feed with confidence through personalized support for breastfeeding and bottle feeding, tailored to fit every family’s needs. See ad on page 10.

Natural Beginnings Lactation Serves the Dallas Metro area 972/302-9313 naturalbeginnings.info Why You’ll It: IBCLCs: Experts in feeding care. We are dedicated to supporting mothers, nurturing babies and strengthening families—because every baby deserves the best start.

See ad on page 3.

For more resources, visit our Best Places directory at dfwchild.com/directory.

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DFWBABY | 2026

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Thomas Hyslop, M.D. Obstetrician/Gynecologist

#1 hospital in DFW. Again.

Shivani Patel, M.D. Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist

The best place for you and your baby.

At UT Southwestern, we pride ourselves on delivering the best possible care for our patients, especially newborns and their families.

Our beautifully designed William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital has been ranked the No. 1 hospital in Dallas-Fort Worth for nine consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report.

It offers new moms spacious labor and delivery suites, chef-prepared meals, and the full spectrum of patient-centered services.

UT Southwestern has one of the largest Ob/Gyn departments in the nation, and we are devoted to helping women manage their health at each stage of life.

No matter how complex or common the condition, you can count on UT Southwestern to deliver the expert, compassionate care that has consistently made us No. 1 in North Texas.