KC Baby & Maternity Magazine Fall 2018

baby

&

maternity

OCTOBER- DECEMBER 2018 | KCPARENT.COM

the

pregnancy weight gain how much is

NORMAL

mistakes parents of toddlers make

STROLLER WORTHY

outings in kc

BOUNCE BACK AFTER BABY

NICU issue

valuable tips for parents

We speak their language.

And yours.

Going to the ER is scary, even for the bravest adventurers. But it’s a little easier when you know you’re in good hands. At our ERs, your little one will be treated just the way they should — like a kid — with the right-sized equipment and treatments made just for them. Plus, our ER experts know just how to put kids — and anxious parents — at ease. And, with rocket-fast ER wait times, your child will be back to their next adventure in no time. See ya later high fevers. Howdy high fives.

Belton Regional Medical Center Centerpoint Medical Center ER of Brookside ER of Olathe ER of Shawnee Lafayette Regional Health Center

Visit

Lee’s Summit Medical Center Menorah Medical Center Overland Park Regional - Main ER Overland Park Regional - Pediatric ER Research Medical Center

KCkidsER.com or text ER to 32222* to find an ER near you.

* Message and data rates may apply. For more information visit texterhelp.com. ER wait times are approximate and provided for informational purposes only. If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

Choosing the right pediatrician leads to a lifetime of good health.

Expecting? Call to schedule your prenatal tour now.

• Easy Care walk-in after 8 weeks of age: Noon - 6:30pm Monday - Thursday • Lactation • Breastfeeding support group • Weekend appointments available • Postpartum depression screening and assistance

• Newborn Nursery Hospital Coverage: Liberty Hospital, NKC Hospital, Saint Luke's North First Affordable Care Act Pediatric Health Home in Missouri and a Level Three NCQA designated Patient-Centered Medical Home.

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913.299.3300 Kansas City kcparent.com october-december 2018

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baby&

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NICU issue OCTOBER- DECEMBER 2018

IN EVERY ISSUE 7

Craft Corner

Labor & Delivery Guide 16

PUMPKIN PATCHES AND FALL FUN, PGS. 28-31

Nesting Nuggets 21 Calendar of Events 30 Belly Laughs 34

YOUR PREGNANCY 10 NICU Tips

YOUR BABY

YOUR TODDLER

8 Bounce Back After Baby

7 No-Mess Paintings

14 Trimester To-Do List

22 When Grandparents Are in Charge

12 When Toddlers Bite

16 Labor & Delivery Guide

24 Strange Things Babies Do

26 Mistakes Parents Make

21 True Labor vs. False Labor

28 Stroller-Worthy Outings

30 Pumpkin Patches

27 Pregnancy Weight Gain 32 Date Night

Our cover features Gracia from Shawnee. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com.

34 Belly Laughs

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OCTOBER- DECEMBER 2018 | KCPARENT.COM

ON THE COVER

Check out the virtual Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com!

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Bounce Back After Baby Valuable NICU Tips for Parents Mistakes Parents of Toddlers Make Pregnancy Weight Gain Stroller-Worthy Outings in KC

8 10 26 27 28

the

pregnancy weight gain how much is

NORMAL

mistakes parents of toddlers make

STROLLER WORTHY

outings in kc

BOUNCE BACK AFTER BABY

NICU issue

valuable tips for parents

WHAT WILL TURN THE IDEAS

OF TODAY INTO THE CURES OF

TOMORROW? LOVE WILL.

Inspired by love, we’re striving to discover the innovations and breakthroughs that will see pediatric medicine not only for what it is – but what it could be. Learn more at childrensmercy.org/lovewill.

LO VE W I LL.

baby&

editor’sletter

maternity

S

tarting when my girls were just a few days old, I would take them outside for some fresh air. The idea began with my mom. She was in town to help out after the births of both girls. After I had my first, she suggested I sit outside with Tori for a few minutes each evening to “give the baby an airing.” Mom is a big believer in the power of fresh air, and as a new mom, who was I to argue? After a few weeks of sitting out back, we moved on to nightly walks in the stroller.

My rule of thumb was 50 degrees or higher and we went out for a walk. I loved those nightly constitutionals! As cooler days are arriving in Kansas City, it’s the perfect time to head out for a stroll. If you’re tired of walking around the neighborhood, we’ve got a list of great stroller-worthy places to visit in Kansas City. And when it’s too cold to venture out, we’ve included indoor destinations as well.

Check it out starting on pg. 28.

I was fortunate and didn’t need to utilize a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) after the birth of either of my girls. For many parents, it’s a reality and can be a scary one.

Whether planned or not, the time a baby spends in the NICU is stressful. Olathe mom Sarah Lyons, who knows a thing or two about NICU stays, shares invaluable tips and info on pgs. 10 and 11.

If it’s time for you to choose a place to deliver your bundle of joy, great news! Our Labor & Delivery Guide, both here in print and online at KCParent.com, gives a great overview of places that deliver. Be sure to read through it to aid with your decisionmaking process.

Enjoy the cooler temps with your little ones, KC!

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Margaret Sarver, Editor

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Debbie Clark Debbie@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Kim Antisdel, Liberty Melissa Bellach, Overland Park Lauren Greenlee, Olathe Megan Kapple, Kansas City Gina Klein, Kansas City Kristina Light, Kansas City Regan Lyons, St. Joseph Sarah Lyons, Olathe Kerrie McLoughlin, Peculiar Christa Melnyk Hines, Olathe

LOCAL CONTENT

Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax

Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Pinterest.com/KCParent @KCParent

Member of

KC Baby & Maternity is published four times per year: Winter (JanMarch), Spring (April-June), Summer (July-Sept) and Fall (Oct-Dec).

It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. KC Baby & Maternity is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. All photography and letters sent to KC Baby & Maternity will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of KC Baby & Maternity.

CRAFTCORNER

Cleanup couldn’t be easier, and, best of all, Baby will stay squeaky clean!

p

Materials Needed: • Canvas • Plastic wrap • Craft paint

no-mess painting

ainting is a great sensory activity for babies, but it sure can be messy! This mess-free painting is so fun for babies and toddlers, and it looks cute enough to hang on the wall in a nursery or give as a gift to grandparents. Cleanup couldn’t be easier, and, best of all, Baby will stay squeaky clean!

Step One: Choose just a few colors in the same color family and apply liberal dots of paint all around the canvas.

Step Two: Wrap the entire canvas in plastic wrap.

Step Three: Let your little one squish and squeeze the paint all around the canvas, through the plastic wrap. You also can use a plastic spoon or straw to move the paint around and create lines.

Step Four: Carefully peel off the plastic wrap and allow paint to dry.

Megan Kapple is a blogger from Kansas City, MO, where she lives with her husband and four children. She loves anything DIY and crafty and blogs about her adventures at HomemadeGinger.com.

Animal Confetti Globes

Yarn Pumpkins

Waterproof Map Placemat

For TONS more great craft projects, log onto KCParent.com!

kcparent.com october-december 2018

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Bounce Back After Baby

B

ouncing back after having a baby means so much more than simply losing baby weight. You also have to do things like figure out how to relate to your friends without kids, how to deal with the advice of family members, how to get your brain back and

more. I’ve been there five times and want you to know that not only can you get back to yourself, you can become a better version of you! Below are seven areas I found important to give some focus.

FRIENDS. What a minefield! Maybe

you have friends who are single, who aren’t able to have kids of their own or, worse, who don’t really like kids at all. Some of these friendships may experience strain after you’ve had your own baby. My best advice here is to feel them out. If they roll their eyes every time you talk about your new tiny love, you might need a break. Or maybe you need to pick a night to get out of the house and meet up with one these friends and at least attempt to talk about a few other things besides your baby!

As for energy-sappers and naysayers (those moms who attack your parenting choices): Consider putting them in the friend deep freeze. Replace them with the cool moms you’ll meet when you look up mom meet-up places online. You’ll find plenty of places to hang out with other moms while you catch up and grab a cup of coffee.

FAMILY. When my parents realized

I was really serious about this attachment parenting thing, they wondered why I would ever do such a thing. After all, didn’t

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they raise me better than that?! But once they saw how the kids were thriving, they were on board. I hope you’re blessed with at least a few family members who offer encouraging (rather than condescending) advice. As for the rest you may encounter at family gatherings, practice smiling and saying, “Thank you for that advice. I’ll think about it.”

MARRIAGE.

Who is that guy you pass in the hallway in the middle of the night? You may crave a weekly date night, or neither of you may want to leave your new bundle at all just yet. Either way, you are perfectly normal. Everything we read tells my man and me we have to have date nights on a regular basis, but we don’t want to. We enjoy the challenge of sneaking moments to talk early in the morning while little ones sleep or hanging out on the deck while they’re watching a movie in the house. If you need that time completely away together as a couple, don’t let anyone make you feel guilty about it. If you prefer staying in, be sure to steal those sweet moments regularly.

BODY. It’s not always easy to pop in

an exercise DVD and work out, especially on only a couple hours of sleep. I want to hug the person who coined the saying, “Nine months up, nine months down.” Why rush off the pounds when your body needs time to heal, and you need time to focus on your baby? While your baby is young and mostly stationary, consider it your excuse to be Rubenesque for a little while (i.e., enjoy those curves!). Because you probably don’t have access to a trainer, a chef and a team of nannies, once your baby is mobile, you get mobile, too. Push that little punkin on swings and in his stroller, chase him around, walk after him, play lots of hide and seek and peek-a-boo. During bath time, do some squats or lunges or pick up those arm weights. The days of long workouts may be over temporarily, so grab your exercise wherever and whenever you can get it!

MIND. I admit I have mommy brain

for a good year after I’ve given birth. To keep your brain from turning to total mush, stay

connected to current events, join online forums like Mothering.com, read if you love it, watch the news if it doesn’t freak you out.

And if you just need to get it all out of your head, blogging has become a great way to connect with other moms while also using your brain during those late nights when you can’t sleep or during your baby’s nap time. Jill Smokler, author of the blog ScaryMommy. com, says, “I did find my blog to be a savior as far as keeping me connected to people.”

SPIRIT.

To knock out both spirit and mind requirements, I like to take a laptop to a coffee shop, grab a drink and write. You may find renewal by spending time with girlfriends alone or exercising alone or just driving around in your car listening to music at full blast like you did pre-kids. If you aren’t big on going out with the girls, use that time off to do something else you love. It can be productive, crafty (scrapbooking), money making (part-time job) or something else (like shopping, a.k.a. “retail therapy,” or going to church alone sometimes).

FINANCIAL. Having a baby

doesn’t have to break the bank, even if you decide to become a stay-at-home mom.

Registering for simple things like diapers, wipes or formula is perfectly appropriate and will help you save money down the line. And don’t forget about online coupons, because every little bit helps. When people ask what you need or what they can bring, don’t worry about telling them you need basic baby care items. Most people would rather bring something you truly need than just another rattle or onesie.

Kerrie McLoughlin (TheKerrieShow.com) lives in Peculiar, MO, and raises five kids while trying to go easy on herself.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Have a friend who just had a baby? Visit KCParent.com for ideas on creative ways to bless a new mom.

The starting point for a healthy smile.

Did you know?

The American Association of Pediatric Dentists recommends that infants be seen by a pediatric dentist at the age of one or when their first teeth are visible. This will help them be comfortable with their future appointments and provide families with the tools they need to stay cavity free.

Locations:

Overland Park 14465 Metcalf Ave Overland Park KS 66223 913-553-2492

Legends 10940 Parallel Pkwy Kansas City KS 66109 913-948-8688 Owner John P. Roth DDS and family Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry Specialist in Orthodontics

StartingPointDental.com

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INSIDE THE NICU:

Valuable Tips FOR NICU PARENTS

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arents dream of that unforgettable moment when they hold their newborn baby in their arms for the first time. When Vicki Moore gave birth to a full term, 8-pound, 12-ounce baby boy, she had no idea he would end up spending a week in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

“When you pack your hospital bag, you take for granted that you will give birth and be released the following day,” Moore says.

“We did not expect to be in the NICU seven days.”

Each year 10-15 percent of babies born in the United States are admitted to the NICU because of premature birth, heart defects, infection or breathing irregularities, according to Parenting.com. Soon after the birth of Moore’s son, doctors discovered he had a congenital heart defect and had been having neonatal seizures. He would need to be admitted to the NICU until he was stable.

While parents do a lot to prepare for the birth of a child, learning about the NICU is typically not on the to-do list. In the United States alone, roughly half a million babies are admitted to the NICU each year. So to be best prepared, parents-to-be should educate themselves, and the true experts to learn from are parents who have been through the experience. The information they share gives you a glimpse into what you can really expect during a NICU stay.

Here are some of the most valuable tips.

DON’T GIVE UP HOPE The rule of thumb is that babies born prematurely will typically go home around their due date; however, this is not always the case. NICU babies have to learn to breathe, eat, suck, swallow and maintain their own body temperature before they are released.

“Be patient with your baby’s progress. The ultimate goal is to bring home a healthy baby.

Just take it one day at a time.” says Carrie Hamerle of Olathe. “They will come home when they are ready.”

Katie Bain, whose daughter was born at 23 weeks gestation, says, “Never give up hope. When given statistics of survival rate or chances of your baby’s having one of many major health concerns or developmental

delays, it can be hard to stay positive.” She recommends seeking out online support groups and blogs that are filled with positive outcomes. “You need to give yourself a lot of positive self-talk,” says Amanda Peters of Gardner. “If you can’t do that, surround yourself with people who can do that for you. For me, that meant reminding myself of others who have successfully made it through the NICU experience.”

“

Remember you are part of your child’s medical team and that you all have the same goal.”

faced that challenging time. Our NICU experiences were one of the most difficult seasons my family has walked through. Even so, I find myself looking back fondly because I am more aware of how miraculous life is. It is a stressful place to be, but the NICU staff is there to do everything possible to get your baby well and home with your family.

Sarah Lyons is a proud mother of six who writes from her home in Olathe. The inspiration for this article comes from her experiences in the NICU after the birth of her 4-year-old triplets.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

COMMON NICU TERMS WORK AS A TEAM “Remember you are part of your child’s medical team and that you all have the same goal,” says Jenifer Wilson of Kansas City, MO. The NICU staff ’s main goal is the health and well-being of your child, but the parent plays a big part in Baby’s care, as well. “Ask as many questions as you can, then ask more,” says Jennifer Robinson of Olathe. “Ask about your baby’s condition and care, but also ask about resources available for financial and emotional support.”

NICU DOCTORS SAVE LIVES “I wasn’t prepared for some of the things we saw and neither was my husband. We could see the doctors working on babies to save their lives. Incredibly heartbreaking,” says Jenna Mrnak of Bowman, ND. NICU doctors are truly saving the lives of babies on a daily basis. Currently, the survival rate for NICU babies in the United States is 98 percent. Three decades ago, that number was closer to 25 percent. While babies’ struggles are heartbreaking to witness, the statistics are encouraging, and there’s comfort in the knowledge that miracles happen in the NICU. Four years ago, when I found out I was expecting triplets, I was told it was highly likely they would spend time in the NICU due to premature birth. I was so grateful to other parents for sharing their knowledge and encouragement with me as our family

Adjusted Age: The child’s age minus the number of weeks he or she was born early. Adjusted age is calculated until approximately age 2.

Apnea: When a baby stops breathing for 20 seconds or longer, also known as an “episode” or a “spell,” and is commonly associated with low heart rate (bradycardia).

Blood gases: The amount of oxygen, carbon dioxide and degree of acidity in the blood.

Bradycardia (“Brady”): An abnormally low heart rate due to a pause in breathing.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): Tubes are attached to a ventilator, and oxygen is delivered through a baby’s nostrils. This helps the baby breathe but does not breathe for her.

Incubator (or Isolette): An enclosed bassinet used to keep preemies warm.

Kangaroo Care: Skin to skin contact between parent and baby.

Nasogastric Tube (NG Tube): Flexible tube inserted through the nostril, down the esophagus and into the stomach. It is used to give food or remove air from the stomach.

Room air: This is the air we breathe without oxygen support.

Ventilator (or respirator): A mechanical breathing machine that delivers air to a baby’s lungs. The ventilator breathes for the baby as his lungs recover. kcparent.com october-december 2018

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toddlers who

has bitten, calmly remove him from the area and tell him, “No, biting hurts. You will not bite others.” Once children see they do not receive special attention (even negative) when they bite, they are less likely to continue the behavior. Once they have calmed down, have them say they are sorry to the child they bit.

“Just like with other toddler behaviors, it’s important to respond consistently and in the realm of their social and emotional development,” says Corbet.

Communicate with your caregivers.

M

ortifying. Picking up your toddler from daycare and learning your offspring bit a friend at school can be just that. Biting phases are completely normal in child development, but what exactly causes toddlers to bite? And what is the best way for parents to handle their toddler’s biting or being bitten by another child?

Biting is common between 1-1/2 and 3 years old, because toddlers are still trying to develop social skills and empathy.

Reasons for biting include oral exploration, frustration, lack of language skills, overstimulation, boredom, hunger and the curiosity of the cause and effect.

What to Do: Find the triggers.

Toddlers will bite repeatedly, so parents and caregivers must watch for patterns of what triggers their child to bite. Is she biting the same child each time? Does it happen when she is at daycare or at home? Is it over a shared toy? Much easier said than done, finding the triggers means you easily can remove your child from the situation before she has a chance to bite.

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e t i b

Prevent the bite from happening.

Ways to avoid biting include supervising toddler activity, giving positive praise and avoiding games that mimic biting.

If you see a biting trigger, try to distract your child with a different toy or a book.

If he is looking for oral stimulation, offer something to chew on like a teething toy.

Teach tots to use their words.

Courtney Corbet, mother and former parent educator from St. Joseph, MO, says it’s important to give your toddler tools when it comes to socializing. Empower the victim to say, “No, that hurts,” or the biter to say, “I want that toy.” Corbet says, “Modeling is a powerful tool for toddlers, and they need help from us when learning how to interact with their peers.”

Read books about biting.

Several children’s books are available to help teach young children not to bite.

Teeth Are Not for Biting by Elizabeth Verdick, Little Dinos Don’t Bite by Michael Dahl and No Biting by Karen Katz all discuss the topic of biting in a way that is relatable to toddlers.

Biting occurs often in childcare centers.

If your child has been biting or is the victim, speak to her caregiver about the triggers you’ve noticed and help come up with ways to prevent it from happening again. Sometimes a simple fix like having a snack a bit earlier, more consistency in the daily schedule or offering a safe teether can alleviate the issue.

Seek additional help.

If your child is still biting after turning 3 years old, Corbet suggests consulting your pediatrician. “Typically, after 3 we expect social skills and the ability to handle some stress,” she says.

What NOT to do: Don’t teach to bite back.

If your child is the victim, do not tell him to bite back the other child. He will only learn to bite and use other forms of violence when he is hurt or frustrated instead of dealing with his emotions in a healthy way.

Don’t shame the child.

“Avoid shaming and being reactive yourself,” says Corbet. “It’s tough, but if parents can find their calm, then comfort the victim first, it can be a great display of nurturing.”

Reacting in a negative, aggressive or shameful manner can actually increase biting incidents, because it increases your child’s worry. Also, be careful how you refer to your child. Labeling your child a “biter” can cause your child to think negatively of himself.

What to do after the bite.

Regan Lyons is a freelance writer who lives in St. Joseph, MO, with her husband and 4-yearold daughter.

Corbet suggests comforting the victim first, then addressing the biting. Once a child

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Are You Ready to

Grow A Reader?

As your baby’s ďŹ rst teacher, you can make the difference in the future of his or her academic success by singing songs, listening to music, most importantly reading books every day.

Mid-Continent Public Library's new Grow A Reader program offers many free resources.

Storytimes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, online resources including video storybooks, and, of course, countless books are available at each of our branches to help your child start building successful reading skills.

Access Early Literacy

Our librarians are standing by to help! Visit growareader.org/KCBaby to learn more.

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trimester to-do list first trimester Start taking prenatal vitamins. Downing a daily vitamin is a simple measure you can put in place to improve the health of both you and your baby. Getting enough folic acid, in particular, is critical throughout the first trimester, as it greatly reduces the likelihood of neural tube defects such as spina bifida.

Establish prenatal care with a physician or midwife. If you haven’t figured out who to be seen by yet, start doing some research. Ask family and friends for recommendations and consult with your insurance provider for a listing of preferred providers as well. Once you’ve found “the one,” prepare for your first exam. Your doctor will want to know the first day of your last period to determine your due date, as well as any family history regarding genetic abnormalities or chronic conditions. Keep a running list of questions on hand to present at your appointment as well.

If you have been on any medications prior to pregnancy, consult with your physician about further use and its impact on your pregnancy.

Develop healthy habits. If you smoke or drink, you’ll never find a better time to kick the habit. Smoking has been linked to numerous complications, including placenta detachment, stunted fetal growth, preterm labor and even miscarriage. Drinking throughout pregnancy may cause low birth weight but also can have a longstanding impact on a child’s development, including learning disabilities, delayed speech and ADHD. Healthy lifestyle choices aren’t just limited to saying no to certain things. Wellness is also about intentionally seeking a healthy lifestyle. Eat a wellrounded diet full of fruits and vegetables and remember to stay hydrated.

Allow yourself to rest. If you’re exhausted, you’re not alone. “The first trimester can be tough,” Olathe Medical Center practitioner Emily Mathiesen, MD, says. “Lots of women are nauseated and significantly fatigued in early pregnancy. Your doctor can help with anti-nausea medications, and ultimately both symptoms almost always improve by the second semester.”

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An old saying points out that a mother’s work is never done, but preparing for your little one’s arrival needn’t be an everlasting chore. Throughout the course of nine months, pregnancy can be both a time of eager anticipation as well as intentional planning and preparation for a new life. This is good news for the woman who feels overwhelmed by the changes taking place within her body. After all, you may not have control over your hormones and how your body responds to pregnancy, but you have much you can do to ensure that the process is safe and enjoyable!

second trimester “The second trimester is usually a nice time—no longer nauseated and not uncomfortably pregnant yet,” Dr. Mathiesen says. “Enjoy this time getting ready for Baby!”

Sign up for prenatal fitness classes. Pregnancy isn’t the time to set new fitness goals, but that doesn’t mean you should quit working out altogether. Be on the lookout for fitness classes offered specifically for pregnant mamas, such as water aerobics, yoga or dance. Signing up for a class gives you the opportunity to bond with other pregnant moms while also being held accountable to stay the course with a fitness regimen throughout your pregnancy.

Decide whether or not you want to know the sex of your baby. Some parents wish to experience the ultimate surprise at birth, while others feel a heads-up settles expectations and helps with preparing for Baby’s arrival.

There is no right or wrong answer—as long as you have one when the technician asks for your preference!

Read books and attend classes about pregnancy, labor and delivery, breastfeeding and infant care.

Theories abound on how to labor, feed and care for a newborn. Now is the time to start researching them all.

Classes can fill up quickly, which means your second trimester is the perfect time to sign up. Your hospital system may have classes, though you also may wish to take specialized classes off site, such as sessions on Lamaze or the Bradley Method.

third trimester Change your rings. Having swollen fingers by this point in your pregnancy is normal—even expected. Make sure to take any rings off before they get stuck. If the thought of going without a beloved ring, such as a wedding band, has you singing the blues, place it on a necklace where it can be displayed close to your heart. Or if you prefer to wear a temporary replacement, look into silicone bands like Enso rings.

Create a birth plan. Plan ahead and communicate to your doctor about whom you would like to have present in the delivery room, as well as what pain management techniques you prefer.

Get ready for Baby. Pack your hospital bag, install the car seat, wash all nursery bed linens and layettes, stock up on pantry items and prepare freezer meals.

Rest. Don’t underestimate the benefit of resting before your baby is born. Your body is hard at work and needs extra grace. “The last few weeks of pregnancy seem to go on forever, but try to enjoy this time before your little one arrives,” Dr. Mathiesen says.

Plan a babymoon. Life is going to change drastically in a short time. Celebrate while you still have that with-child glow yet aren’t uncomfortably waddling about (also keep in mind, many physicians and airlines have restrictions for women flying after 36 weeks). If your budget or doctor’s orders keep you homebound, aim for a staycation and check out KCParent.com for a listing of ways to rock an in-town vacation.

Prepare for baby showers. Accepting a friend’s, relative’s or coworker’s offer to throw a baby shower is customary, but you can contribute to the effort by building up a baby registry, sharing your baby nursery’s theme or compiling a guest list.

Lauren Greenlee is a mom of three who delivered her babies in a hospital setting, birthing center and home.

She writes from her Olathe home.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

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HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section CENTERPOINT MEDICAL CENTER 19600 E. 39th St. S. Independence, MO 64057 Centerpoint Medical Center takes the unique needs of expectant moms and personalizes each birth experience. Nearly 8,000 babies have been born since Centerpoint opened in 2007 and, with the most advanced, family-centered care backed by HCA Midwest Health’s technology and resources, we offer private, spacious labordelivery and postpartum rooms, dedicated lactation consultants, and an electronic infant security system and robust communication for Baby’s safety. Centerpoint also has a Level III NICU supported by experienced neonatologists, specialized nurses and more.

816.698.7300 CenterpointMedical.com/ uniquedelivery

MENORAH MEDICAL CENTER 5721 W. 119th St. Overland Park, KS 66209 The spa-like environment at the Women’s Center at Menorah Medical Center is nurturing, relaxing and secure for expectant moms, featuring private and spacious suites for labor, birth and recovery for the length of stay. Backed by HCA Midwest Health’s technology and expertise, the Women’s Center provides compassionate doctors specializing in mother-baby care and experienced nurses and support staff dedicated to caring for moms and newborns. Should the need arise, Menorah has a Level II NICU for babies requiring advanced 24/7 care.

1.877.769.6636 MenorahMedicalCenter.com/ uniquedelivery

16 october-december 2018 kcparent.com

HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section OLATHE MEDICAL CENTER 20333 W. 151st St. Olathe, KS 66061 The four-story Birth Place blends the care you’ve grown to trust at Olathe Medical Center with an impressive facility you’ll immediately love. Our obstetrics wing with a Level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) features secure, webcam-enabled nurseries, an advanced NICU where you can stay overnight with your baby in the same room and luxury suites with queen beds.

The NICU is staffed with RNs specially trained in the care of high-risk infants, neonatal nurse practitioners and board-certified neonatologists. Find a doctor who delivers at The Birth Place.

913.791.4396 OlatheHealth.org/birthplace

OVERLAND PARK REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 10500 Quivira Rd. Overland Park, KS 66215 Overland Park Regional Medical Center— acclaimed for expertise in caring for situations that may arise before, during, and after pregnancy and childbirth—is backed by HCA Midwest Health and board-certified obstetricians, perinatologists and expert nurses available 24/7.

Spacious birthing suites are designed for privacy and relaxation.

Also offered: the region’s first and most comprehensive certified nursemidwife program, Johnson County’s most advanced Level III NICU, the region’s only dedicated antepartum unit and Johnson County’s only dedicated Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

913.541.5058 OPRMC.com/uniquedelivery

kcparent.com october-december 2018

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HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section RESEARCH MEDICAL CENTER 2316 E. Meyer Blvd.

Kansas City, MO 64132 Expectant moms feel confident and comfortable before, during and after giving birth with modern and spacious birthing and recovery suites at Research Medical Center, which is backed by HCA Midwest Health’s technology and resources. Research has doctors specializing in mother-baby care and dedicated, experienced nurses and support staff, plus the region’s most comprehensive certified nurse-midwife program. Research is one of only a few hospitals in the region to offer a comprehensive OB Hospitalist and emergency services programs, and a Level III NICU is available.

816.276.3206 ResearchMedicalCenter.com/ uniquedelivery

SAINT LUKE’S CUSHING HOSPITAL 711 Marshall St. Leavenworth, KS 66048 As Leavenworth’s premiere maternity center, Saint Luke’s Cushing Hospital makes your birth experience special with personalized care from our dedicated doctors and nurses.

You’ll labor, deliver, and recover in our newly remodeled suites and spend those first few days bonding with your newborn. From the homelike environment to the walk-in showers with massaging jets, we provide the utmost comfort for mothers and their families during labor and delivery.

913.684.1136 SaintLukesBaby.org

18 october-december 2018 kcparent.com

HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section SAINT LUKE’S EAST HOSPITAL 100 NE St. Lukes Blvd.

Lee's Summit, MO 64086 Saint Luke’s East Hospital has been eastern Jackson County’s premiere maternity center for over 10 years. Our maternity center combines all the comforts of home with the most advanced medical technology to ensure a special and safe birthing experience. Rooming-in for parents, special rooms designed for twins, as well as a separate entrance and waiting area just for families are part of our familycentered care. Our Level IIIa NICU ensures even the tiniest patients are well cared for.

816.347.5000 SaintLukesBaby.org

SAINT LUKE’S HOSPITAL OF KANSAS CITY 4401 Wornall Rd. Kansas City, MO 64111 More than 2,400 babies are born each year at Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City. Our maternity center features private rooms where you can room in with your newborn and spend the first days bonding. Our services range from low intervention, natural childbirth to high-tech care for high-risk pregnancies through Saint Luke’s MaternalFetal Medicine Specialists. We are home to Saint Luke’s Heart of America Mother’s Milk Bank, the region’s only human donor breastmilk bank.

816.932.2000 SaintLukesBaby.org

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HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section SAINT LUKE’S NORTH HOSPITAL – BARRY ROAD 5830 NW Barry Rd. Kansas City, MO 64154 More than 900 babies are born every year at Saint Luke’s North Hospital. We renovated our maternity center in 2015 to offer mothers and babies all the comforts of home combined with the most advanced medical technology and a Level II NICU. With our centralized location, we can conveniently serve the entire Northland area.

816.891.6000 SaintLukesBaby.org

SAINT LUKE’S SOUTH HOSPITAL 12300 Metcalf Ave. Overland Park, KS 66213 From natural births to traditional and high-risk deliveries, the Saint Luke’s South Hospital maternity center offers the advantages of one-on-one attention and access to the most advanced medical technology. Women labor, deliver, and recover in one of our private, spacious suites, and you’ll remain in the same room your entire stay. Skilled doctors, nurses, and lactation specialists offer a caring and personalized birthing experience in a family-centered environment, supported by a Level III NICU. 913.317.7000 SaintLukesBaby.org

20 october-december 2018 kcparent.com

nestingnuggets

IS IT TRUE LABOR‌OR FALSE? Your due date is near; your hospital bags are packed and ready. The contractions have begun, and at times, they take your breath away. While still bearable, they’re coming a lot more often and lasting much longer than before. Anxiety and excitement set in. Could this be it? Is it really time to head to the hospital? The chart below tells some of the differences between true labor and false.

FALSE LABOR

TRUE LABOR

How often do the contractions occur?

Often irregular and do not get closer together.

Come at regular intervals and last about 60 seconds. As time goes on, they get closer together.

Do they change with movement?

May stop when you walk or rest, or may even stop if you change positions.

Continue despite movement or changing positions.

How strong are they?

Usually weak and do not get much stronger. Or they may be strong at first and then get weaker.

Steadily increase in strength.

Where do you feel the pain?

Usually only felt in the front of the abdomen or pelvic region.

Usually start in the lower back and move to the front of the abdomen.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Check out the interactive virtual

Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com where users can find comprehensive information on hospitals, including descriptions, images, videos, social media links and much more!

Other hospitals in the Kansas City metro that offer labor and delivery services include: Lawrence Memorial Hospital Liberty Hospital North Kansas City Hospital Providence Medical Center Shawnee Mission Health Birth Center Truman Medical Center Hospital Hill Truman Medical Center Lakewood University of Kansas Health System

kcparent.com october-december 2018

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don’t tell mom the babysitter’s old

n

{ but still amazing }

ew parents need all the help they can get. Thankfully, with baby boomers’ fully entering retirement mode, the number of available grandparents in the United States is higher than ever. According to the Census Bureau, the number of grandparents in the nation has risen by 24 percent since 2001, making the total number of grandparents in the 65 million range.

Although new parents may be glad to have grandparents (and grandparentsin-law) around to help with babies and toddlers, they may encounter some feelings of trepidation, too. After all, more than two decades may have passed since Grandma has handled a baby, and the rules and research have changed significantly. Parents often struggle finding the balance between gratefulness and assertiveness when it comes to the care of their child. But fear not, we’re here to help. Here are four debunked childcare myths and how to handle any heated discussions with love.

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OUT WITH THE OLD: This breastfed baby needs water!

Grandma remembers a time when breast milk just wasn’t enough. If a baby was fussy and breastfeeding, it was assumed the baby was dehydrated. Not so, say modern times.

Breast milk/formula is truly the only fluid your baby needs. Babies typically do not require water until closer to 6 months when they are eating solids.

EXPLAINING THE NEW: Thank you, Grandma, for your suggestion to give her water. However, did you know water can flush out important nutrients the baby needs? Also, it can fill her up and keep her from wanting milk, and milk keeps her nourished. All she needs is her breast milk/ formula until she’s a little older!

OUT WITH THE OLD: The baby is cold! Give that poor thing a blanket at night!

Sleep is a big point of contention in many multigenerational households, and everyone has an opinion. Grandma believes in a nice warm blanky for the baby, along with a soothing stuffed animal and maybe a crib bumper in case she rolls over and hits her

head. No dice, says the American Academy of Pediatrics. Those soft, cushiony items pose risks for suffocation and SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

EXPLAINING THE NEW: We keep the room at a nice warm temperature, and she’s extra toasty in those cute jammies you gave us! Studies show that blankets and bumpers put babies at a higher risk for death before the age of 12 months.

We just don’t feel comfortable risking that.

Besides, she’s hardly moving in her crib at night, so she won’t hurt herself. You can check out the monitor with us!

OUT WITH THE OLD: Give that sweet baby cereal to fill his tummy and make him sleep longer! He’s 4 months old and needs the extra sustenance!

Again, with the sleep issue, but this Grandma has a point, right? Sorry, but no.

Although it’s true that the baby could be waking wanting food, the cereal isn’t going to add enough calories to make a difference timewise. Babies simply need to eat throughout the night when they’re younger. And recently research has shown cereal and solid foods shouldn’t even begin until closer to 6 months.

EXPLAINING THE NEW:

EXPLAINING THE NEW:

There’s actually no evidence that cereal helps with sleep. In fact, one study by the Academic Pediatric Association showed that feeding a baby cereal before 4 months can actually disrupt his sleep! More likely, the baby is entering a sleep regression, or perhaps his room is too bright. Maybe you could help me make some blackout curtains for him this weekend?

Grandma, I know it seems like I’m spoiling him, but he has plenty of years to run around on his own and hate me for making him wear overalls. For now, I’m going to love on him as much as I possibly can. If loving and hugging and cuddling him is wrong, I simply don’t want to be right (mic drop!).

OUT WITH THE OLD: If you keep holding that baby, you’ll spoil him for life.

Spoiler alert: You cannot spoil a baby by holding him. To the contrary, babies need comforting—and a lot of it. As a matter of fact, hospitals encourage skinto-skin time because it increases the bond between parent and child significantly, and even can stabilize an elevated heartbeat or stress levels for a baby. For this argument, you don’t need research to back you up.

Stand strong and defend your position as a parent.

OUT WITH THE OLD: Don’t feed her strawberries—she’ll get a sweet tooth!

Let’s be real, the crux of this suggestion is firmly planted in fear: fear that the baby will develop a taste for sweets and, therefore, someday be fat. No, no and no. According to research, babies are already born with a penchant for the sweet stuff (hello, breastmilk).

It’s human nature to enjoy the taste of sugar.

Fruits are healthy in moderation, and having some won’t hurt your child.

EXPLAINING THE NEW: You know, Grandma, my brother and I were both raised eating the same foods, but he loves salty foods and I love sweet foods.

If we give the baby a wide variety of choices (consider having this conversation while roasting some yams), I think we’ll be just fine!

In situations where a grandparent challenges your parenting choices with outdated information and old wives’ tales, don’t be afraid to establish who makes the rules: you and your partner. Listening to the advice is always a good idea (because often you’ll get some good nuggets!), but that doesn’t mean you must heed it. A great diffuser is to hop on the internet together and fact check on credible sites. This way both of you can learn something together, and reading that outside expert source takes the pressure off you and your partner to have the right words. If all else fails, make a rule that the pediatrician is the ultimate tie breaker. Put him on speaker phone, and may the odds be ever in your favor!

Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for KC. She lives in Liberty with her husband, stepdaughters and toddler son.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

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What milestones will Baby reach during the first year? Head to KCParent.com for a list.

e

baby qu i rks

strange (but normal!) things babies do

very new parent at some point wonders: Is my baby supposed to do that? Is this normal?

Morgan Shandler, Overland Park, recalls several moments of new mama anxiety during the first few weeks home with her daughter, who is now a busy 1-year-old.

“One thing that particularly freaked me out was when Violet would bob her head when attempting to nurse. It almost looked like she was having a seizure or like she was a broken down robot,” Shandler says. “But my pediatrician assured me it was a completely normal part of ‘rooting’ for the breast.”

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Startle reflex. Parents also worry about seizures when their infant suddenly throws out his arms and legs as if he’s falling.

Jennifer Mellick, MD, FAAP, Pediatric Partners KC, and president of the Kansas Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, says that the startle or Moro Reflex is a normal neurological infantile reflex that disappears as the nervous system matures.

“If you believe in evolution, there’s probably some reason why mammals and homo sapiens have this instinctual need to grasp, and if they’re falling, reach out to find something and grab on. Babies do that same kind of thing. If

they feel like they are falling, they are going to throw their arms and legs out wide to find their caregiver and grab,” Dr. Mellick says.

If you’re ever concerned about strange movements your baby makes, try to video record it, suggests Jennifer McBride, MD, internal medicine and pediatric specialist, Truman Medical Centers and Children’s Mercy.

“Nine times out of 10, Baby won’t do the motion when in the office with us. If parents record it, I can see what the baby looks like when they are doing that movement and either reassure them or decide if we need to do something else,” Dr. McBride says.

Funny breathing. Babies have breathing patterns that alarm many newbie parents. Physicians call it “periodic breathing of the newborn”—and it’s completely normal.

“They will almost pant for a period of time and then they will pause for several seconds— several seconds in baby breathing seems like a really, really long time. Then, they take a deep breath, let out a deep sigh and they pant again,” Dr. Mellick says.

Babies also often make lots of “gurgly, snorty sounds,” says Michael Greenfield, MD, internal medicine and pediatric specialist, Shawnee Mission Health.

“This is pretty normal because babies have to breathe through their noses when they’re eating and a lot of babies have congestion so it will make their breathing sound much worse than it really is,” Dr. Greenfield says.

Bless you! Just as babies make funny sounds when they breathe, they often sneeze, which leads parents to wonder whether their child suffers from allergies or is getting sick.

“That’s just how the baby clears out his nose because babies can’t blow their noses like we can,” Dr. McBride says.

Hiccups. Just like the rest of us, babies experience hiccups, which are sudden contractions of the diaphragm. Often a baby can get hiccups after a feeding.

“Babies will hiccup for hours on end, which doesn’t bother them at all,” Dr. Greenfield says.

Scaly scalp. Cradle cap, which is a greasy, yellowish, scaly rash on the head, may not look cute, but it’s usually nothing to worry about. Try brushing your baby’s hair or head once a day with a soft baby brush, which will help loosen the natural oils on the scalp to avoid buildup. Moisturizers like baby oil, mineral oil or coconut oil also can help.

“If it seems to be getting worse or looking really red, that would be a time to see the pediatrician. It could be a sign that Baby is going to have eczema, which typically runs in families,” Dr. McBride says.

as fast as it does breastmilk,” Dr. McBride explains.

If your little one is passing watery diarrhea, contact your doctor, as this can be a sign of an infection.

Strange colored poop.

Jeepers, creepers… It may look weird, but babies sometimes sleep with their eyes half open or appear as if their eyes are rolling around in their heads.

“I don’t know that anyone knows why eyes roll around the head. It’s probably something to do with their sleep patterns. They don’t have well-organized REM sleep at that age,” Dr. Mellick says.

Occasionally, your baby’s eyes may appear to cross, which is normal up to 18 months of age. If your baby’s eyes seem persistently crossed or turned in or out, however, talk with your physician.

Depending on whether babies are breastfed or formula-fed, the color of their poop can range from green and yellow to brown.

Breast-fed babies will have more color variations because breastmilk is composed of Mom’s diet.

“I get worried if the poop is a gray color or lacking in the brown or green tones or if there is ever blood or red in the diaper,” Dr. McBride says.

Difficulty pooping. Babies may

KCPARENT.COM

appear to struggle when they go, but as long as their poop is soft and doesn’t look like pellets or rocks (a sign of constipation), parents needn’t worry.

Babies can have dirty diapers anywhere from once a day to every few days.

“Formula-fed babies don’t necessarily poop every day, and sometimes that concerns parents, but the body doesn’t process formula

More zzz’s…pretty please?

The most popular questions pediatricians field from tired parents have to do with sleep and when everyone in the family can get more of it.

“Sleep is the holy grail of parenthood,” Dr. Mellick says.

Planning Baby’s 1st Birthday Party?

Find the perfect entertainer, arcade, party supplies, inflatable, live animals, face painter and

MUCH MORE! VISIT THE PARTY GUIDE KCPARENT.COM TODAY!

Babies generally don’t sleep for long periods of time because they need to eat every few hours. Their tiny tummies can hold only so much milk.

“As they get older, they still need to eat frequently because they need a large volume to get the calories they need to grow,” Dr. Mellick says.

By about 6 months, your baby should be sleeping for a seven- to eight-hour stretch.

Wait, they changed. What is normal today probably won’t last because babies grow and change rapidly, but always consult your family physician with any concerns.

“We’d rather you call with a question that isn’t really something to be alarmed about than miss something that is,” Dr. Mellick says.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines resides in Olathe with her husband and their two adolescent sons, who still do strange things! Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

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s e k a Mist

s

Staying consistent can help your toddler learn what to expect—and it can prevent Mom and Dad’s having to come up with creative new solutions or punishments.

Stretching the schedule. Making just one more stop when running errands seems harmless. Or ordering dessert after dinner. Or staying just a few more minutes to talk. “The worst meltdown my son ever had was at Target when I pushed back nap time to stop for paper towels. I knew it was nap time, but stopped anyway. I paid the price,” says Melanie Green, Raytown mom. Parents often think they can make small changes to the toddler’s schedule to meet their own needs. This can be necessary sometimes, but recognize that your toddler may not handle it well. Toddlers thrive on consistency and they absolutely function better with a nap.

parents make when parenting toddlers urviving the first year of your little one’s life is a milestone. At the 12-month mark, parents begin to have visions that the sleepless nights, the endless diapers and the teething are coming to an end. Enter the toddler years.

Having an infant in the house is challenging, but the toddler years have

their own set of stresses and sacrifices. Living with a tiny human who is mobile, becoming more vocal and learning how to navigate the world can push the boundaries of even the most patient parent. To make sure you don’t run into any of the toddler years’ hidden minefields, here are some mistakes to avoid when dealing with your toddling time bomb.

Labeling challenging behavior as “bad.” Dealing with screaming, crying and the refusal to do basic tasks can test your parenting chops. These behaviors frustrate even the most unflappable mom or dad and are often labeled as bad behavior.

Sometimes, this is the case. Sometimes, toddlers are simply experiencing frustrations of their own. Without the ability to talk about their feelings, toddlers frequently resort to throwing fits. If you take the time to try to understand what your toddler is attempting to work through, you may recognize a learning opportunity.

Letting communication break down. One of the most common reasons behind toddler meltdowns is an inability to communicate. “I can’t tell you how many times I found myself asking my daughter, ‘What is it you want?’ while she screamed and cried,” Julie Wentz, Kansas City, MO, mom, says. “I just couldn’t understand what she was saying, and she didn’t have the words to fill me in. It was frustrating for us both.” Don’t assume a tantrum means your child wants something unreasonable. Being constantly misunderstood is hard, and sometimes that frustration bubbles over.

Feeling guilty. The toddler years offer Or, it just could be that you cut the toast into triangles when it was supposed to be a square, it is on a blue plate when it should be yellow, and your toddler wanted the plate to be on the left of the cup. Some days you learn; other days you just can’t win.

Changing tactics. Toddlers test boundaries. It is just the way of the world.

With the goal of teaching little ones right from wrong, many parents try different approaches to discipline and rewards. Just because something doesn’t work one day, doesn’t mean it won’t work in the long run.

many things for parents to enjoy. Toddlers learn something new every day, they say cute things and they love you unconditionally.

But the trying times can be TRYING. Do not feel guilty about having a hard day or not cherishing every moment. Recognize that you and your toddler are human. You both will have good days and bad days, fun moments and stressful moments. Give yourself and your toddler a break and know you will make it through this together.

Melissa Bellach is a freelance writer and mom of three living in Overland Park.

For tips on stopping a tantrum before it starts, log onto KCParent.com.

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kcparent.com october-december 2018

pregnancy weight gain: how much is normal?

P

regnancy is an exciting time in a woman’s life! Being pregnant is something a mom will remember forever: the growing belly, morning sickness, Baby’s first kicks and yes, even the dreaded weight gain throughout each trimester. Although gaining weight is normal during pregnancy, for some women keeping weight at a healthy level for nine months can be a real struggle. But what exactly is a healthy weight gain during pregnancy, and how can you possibly maintain it?

First of all, gaining weight during pregnancy is good. An expecting mother should never diet or restrict calories.

Without the proper nutrients, a fetus cannot grow and thrive. In general, you should gain about 1 to 5 pounds during your first trimester of pregnancy and 1 pound a week during the rest of your pregnancy.

During the first trimester, your body doesn’t really need any extra calories. You should naturally put on up to 5 pounds thanks to all the changes taking place within your body. These changes include growing breasts, increased fluid and blood volume, and fat and protein stores. Also, because of morning sickness, some women may even lose weight in the first trimester. The important thing to remember, however, is this: Don’t obsess with numbers. Instead, pay attention to the food you’re eating.

“Weight gain during pregnancy is something expecting mothers need to pay some attention to, but they shouldn’t fixate on it. The most important thing is to care about what you’re eating rather than the number of pounds. Are you getting enough vegetables and fruits, or are you eating fast food every day?” says Katie Lorand, a CNM, MPH with Midwest Women’s Healthcare Specialists.

Although gaining too little weight while pregnant is possible, is it really possible to gain too much weight? Absolutely. About one in five women gains more than 40 In general, you should pounds while pregnant. If you enter pregnancy obese and/or gain too much weight during pregnancy, you increase your risks for preeclampsia and gestational diabetes, gain about 1 to 5 pounds which can lead to long-term health complications for you and Baby. during your first trimester “Instead, take a look at what you’re eating and make it as healthy as possible,” of pregnancy and 1 pound Lorand says. “Make each meal a rainbow. That’s a good trick to diversify your diet. A wide variety of foods is important.” a week during the rest The nutrition goal is to aim for six to 11 servings of fruits and veggies a day. of your pregnancy.

Limit carbohydrates as much as possible, along with baked goods using white flours or having high sugar content. Replace these with whole foods. Include healthy fats like avocados, nut butters, seeds and lean protein in your daily menu.

Other steps you can take to meet pregnancy weight gain recommendations: n Work with your doctor or midwife on your weight gain goals regularly throughout your pregnancy. n Track your weight gain at the beginning and throughout your pregnancy and discuss any concerns with your health care provider. n Exercise regularly. Try to fit in 30 minutes of exercise each day. Physical activity is safe and healthy for most pregnant women.

“Another thing you can do is download a food tracker app,” Lorand says. “There are many available. Eat what you normally eat and track your intake for up to a week. Then have the app analyze your diet for you. You’ll get feedback from this, so you can get more specifics of what you might need to eat to make it a healthier pregnancy.”

The bottom line of pregnancy weight gain is this: Don’t worry. Trust that if you’re eating healthy foods and getting regular exercise, your body will gain the perfect amount of weight for you and your baby. So instead of saying, “I’m eating for two,” tell your baby, “I’m eating for you!”

Writer/author Gina Klein resides in Kansas City with her husband, two daughters and houseful of rescued animals.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com october-december 2018

27

10 favorite stroller-worthy

i s n g k a n n i sas city t u o

You spent a mint on that new stroller—now it’s time to enjoy it.

Cabin fever can happen to moms too, so take that stroller out for a spin beyond the neighborhood playground. Check out these local attractions that are accessible and child-friendly, but also engaging for parents.

five outdoor favorites

1

All of these beautiful attractions offer stroller-friendly smooth pathways, beautiful backdrops for photos and natural environments to enjoy.

Kansas City Zoo KansasCityZoo.org. The zoo is open year-round and is especially enjoyable midweek in the fall when crowds are smaller and weather is pleasant. Many of the exhibits are delightful for little ones at stroller height. The penguins are playful, the stingrays are swimming, the monkeys are swinging and the kangaroos are hopping. The paved trails at the zoo are easily accessible, and an upgraded FOTZ membership even includes free rides aboard the train and tram. We like to explore a different section of the zoo on each visit to keep it interesting and manage energy.

3

2 4

Overland Park Arboretum

Powell Gardens PowellGardens.org. The 970-acre botanical garden with seven themed gardens is nearly impossible to see in just one visit, but it is always beautiful. Visitors especially enjoy the paved trails through the Heartland Harvest Garden where everything is edible, the Woodland & Stream Garden where the fall foliage is especially brilliant and the Island Garden where you’ll find a peaceful place to rest and take photos. The outdoor setting is ideal for great mommy-and-me photos, and the scenery is a haven for nature lovers. Don’t-Miss Event: Glow: Jack-O’-Lantern Festival, Oct. 19-20. Walk a nearly mile-long pathway adorned with light displays, jack-o’-lanterns and fantastic pumpkin sculptures.

5

OPKansas.org. The 300-acre gardens offer a beautiful outdoor oasis. The Children’s Garden whimsical with trains, wooded paths that beckon and the beloved Monet Garden are all especially vibrant as the autumn colors change. You’ll find many breathtaking places to take a photograph at this relaxing and beautiful outdoor attraction. Don’t-Miss Event: The gardens are always affordable, but admission is free on Tuesdays.

Loose Park Located at 51st & Wornall is one of Kansas City’s most beautiful parks. The 75-acre park is famous for its summer rose garden, but the fall is beautiful too. With tree-lined walkways around the pond and beautiful bridges to venture across, the park offers a scenic place to enjoy and explore the outdoors.

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead OPKansas.org. The farmstead is the most lively attraction to make our fall fave list and is a consistent favorite for generations of KC kids. If you are entertaining a group of young children, this is an ideal outdoor attraction. Visit more than 250 animals and birds, including goats, chickens, cows and horses.

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kcparent.com october-december 2018

five indoor favorites

6

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Nelson-Atkins.org. This world-class museum offers free admission (and affordable parking) and it’s the perfect place for Mom to enjoy beautiful art while knowing that her little one is welcome. The museum is accessible and friendly to guests of all ages.

Don’t-Miss Event: On the third Friday of each month, the museum hosts Junior Jaunts. Bring your baby in a stroller or front carrier for an adult-focused, yet infant friendly, mini museum tour. Enjoy discussion of a few favorite art galleries.

7

Union Station and Crown Center UnionStation.org and CrownCenter.com. They are connected via the Link (an enclosed walkway), allowing visitors easy access to enjoy both attractions in their holiday splendor from mid-November through December. The Crown Center Santa and the gingerbread village are perfect for holiday photos. With giant Christmas trees, holiday lights and decorations, both attractions are especially beautiful during the holiday season. Enjoy shopping at Crown Center, then visit the model train exhibit at Union Station where the trains are at stroller eye level for young children. Both attractions host a variety of holiday events, from shows to concerts, throughout the season—all on KCParent.com.

9

Oak Park Mall, Legends Outlets and Summit Fair TheNewOakParkMall.com, LegendsShopping.com and SummitFairShopping.com. These are three favorite shopping districts. At Oak Park Mall, enjoy a ride on the carousel. At Legends Outlets, capture a photo as you walk the yellow brick road. At Summit Fair, enjoy a variety of retail shops and restaurants. All three will offer photos with Santa throughout the holiday season and a variety of shopping specials.

10

8

Your Local Pet Store My firstborn LOVED visiting the local pet store as a toddler.

We watched tropical fish, exotic birds, even gerbils running in cages. Best of all, the pet store is next to our grocery store, so we were able to use it as a reward for good behavior in the food aisles.

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org. From the first impression, visitors enter a charming world of toys with interactive exhibits taking them on a stroll down memory lane. They encounter treasures from Grandma’s attic, a vast collection of dollhouses, miniatures and toys of yesteryear. Toys enjoyed by generations are waiting to be discovered. Many of the exhibits are at stroller eye level so young ones can see the dollhouses and toys. All of the exhibits are protected in cases, so parents don’t have to worry, and in a museum that specializes in telling the story of childhood, children are very welcome.

Even though her girls are no longer in strollers, Kansas City mom Kristina Light loves taking them on fall outings in her hometown. kcparent.com october-december 2018

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>> FALL 2018 CALENDAR

Visit the KCParent.com calendar for over 1,000 more events!

playdates WEEKLY

DAILY Open Jump Daily Urban Air. Urban Air Overland Park is the solution to a common problem: needing one place to entertain kids of every age.

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com

Readers: These events typically occur every week, but there may be exceptions. Please call ahead to verify times.

Splash with Me Lenexa Rec Center.

Kids can swim, play and become more water confident in the water at the rec center’s kiddie pool. Adult supervision required. Lenxa.com

Indoor Playtime Jump City. Jump City offers bouncing, sliding and jumping fun for kids 12 years old and younger.

JumpCityKC.com

Story Time Visit MyMCPL.org to find a complete list of story times for all ages, every day of the week!

MONDAY Moms FREE Monday 9:30-8:00, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s Discovery Center with a paid child’s admission. Paradise-Park.com

kc pumpkin patches Carolyn’s Country Cousins Bring the entire family to our 50-acre u-pick pumpkin patch and farm. Open every day 10:00-7:00 Sept. 15 through Oct. 31. Families love taking an old-fashioned hayride to the field to pick their own pumpkins and riding our new Country Carousel!

Weekends feature Uncle Lester’s pig races, live entertainment and great food. For more information visit us at www.CarolynsCountryCousins.com and follow us on Facebook.

Johnson Farms At Johnson Farms, you’ll be in the country, but close to your home. Take a wagon ride out to the pumpkin, sunflower or vegetable patch and pick your own right off the plant. Experience our giant jumping pillow, tunnel maze or NEW corn pit, all INCLUDED in your admission.

Delicious food and friendly animals each time you visit! Plenty of parking and outdoor fun for all ages. www.JohnsonFarms.net, 816.331.1067, @johnsonfarmsMO

Louisburg Cider Mill and Country Store Store hours: 8:00-6:00 (Mon.-Sat.), 9:00-6:00 (Sun.). Ciderfest: Oct. 6-7; live music, food and craft booths. Watch as fresh cider is pressed and enjoy the delicious cider donuts! Fall family fun will

be happening until Oct. 31. Enjoy the 10-acre Corn Maze, huge Pumpkin Patch, farm animals, children’s play area, jump pillow and more! 913.837.5202. www.LouisburgCiderMill.com

Weston Orchard and Vineyard Enjoy a u-pick pumpkin patch, u-pick apple orchard,hayrack rides, apple cannons, rat racers, bouncing pillow, low ropes course with zip line, kids corn maze and more! If you play hard enough to work up an appetite, enjoy kettle corn and caramel apples to keep your energy up. Open seven days a week, 9:00-5:00. Apple cannons available on weekends only. www.WestonOrchardAndVineyard.com

Pumpkin Hollow Fall is in the air at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead! Gather your family and friends and join us for our 20th annual Pumpkin Hollow. Ticket includes a horse-drawn hayride, pumpkin-themed games, ole-fashioned activities, barrel train rides, a giant hay pyramid slide and, of course, a pumpkin to take home! Come make family memories while supporting our nonprofit. Tickets must be purchased at the Farmstead on the day you are attending. www.DRFarmstead.org

KC Parent is giving away 50 FAMILY 4-PACKS to all of your favorite pumpkin patches!

PLUS find our geo-based ONLINE PUMPKIN PATCH GUIDE. All the details are at KCParent.com.

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Dollar Bowling 3:00-9:00, Aaron’s Family Entertainment Center. $1 games, $1 shoe rental and more. AaronsFEC.com

Toddler Town Mon, Wed & Fri, 10:00Noon, Roger T Sermon Center. Indoor play area for little ones. $1/child. ci.Independence.mo.us

TUESDAY Toddle Time Tue & Wed, 9:00-11:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Tunnels, games, puzzles...lots for your little one to play and learn. $1-2/child. OPKansas.org

Creative Story Time Tue & Fri, 10:30, Ceramic Café. Enjoy a book, then the kids get to paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story and finish with a snack. $12/child + tax.

CeramicCafeKC.com

Tots on Tuesday Third Tue of each month, 10:30-11:30, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Dress up, play color-matching games, try on crazy hats and read stories with a trendy twist.

KemperArt.org

WEDNESDAY

Family Night 6:30, Kansas City Public

What’s for Dinner? Wed & Sat, 3:00, Burr Oak Woods. The captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast every Wednesday and Saturday. The snakes will be fed every other Friday. MDC.mo.gov

THURSDAY George Owens Nature Park. Children are invited to participate in a nature focused story time and craft.

FRIDAY Junior Jaunts Third Friday of the month, 10:15-11:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Bring your baby in a stroller or carrier for an adult-focused, yet infantfriendly, mini museum tour. Free.

Nelson-Atkins.org

Paint Me a Story Alternating Fridays, 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire.

Paint a ceramic piece, listen to a story and enjoy a snack. $15/child.

PaintGlazeAndFire.net

10:00am-7:00pm 7 days a week

SATURDAY Weekend Family Activities 1:00-4:00,

Nature Story Time 10:00 & 11:00,

Open Sept.15-Oct. 31

Library Plaza Branch. Free weekly programs include concerts, puppet shows, theater, magicians and more.

KCLibrary.org

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Art activities led by museum guides.

Nelson-Atkins.org

Home Depot Kids Workshops Alternating Saturdays, Home Depot stores across the metro. Free workshops for children where kids build wooden projects to keep.

Workshops.HomeDepot.com

Saturday Morning Nature Program 10:00-10:30, Prairie Park Nature Center.

Programs may include a short video, slide show and, of course, going outdoors to enjoy birds, wildflowers, bugs or a stroll through the park.

LawrenceKS.org

Fabulous Fun on the Farm!!

• World Famous Pumpkin Donuts • Company Outings and Birthday Parties • The Amazing Jumping Pumpkin • Historic Country Carousel • Pig Races on Weekends • Homemade Fudge, Mouthwatering Kettle Corn and Delicious Roasted Nuts • Traditional Farm Animals • Mammoth Corn Pit • 60 Acres of Pumpkins

Bring in this ad & receive $2 off single admission.

Cannot be combined with other offers.

kcparent.com october-december 2018

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>> FALL 2018 CALENDAR

Visit KCParent.com and search “Favorite Dates” for even more ideas!

parents night out

Brew at the Zoo & Wine Too Third Thursdays at the Nelson Monthly, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join the revelry every third Thursday of the month with live music, free programs, art activities and more that showcase local talents—all just for adults!

Designed for college age and above, but all adults are welcome.

Nelson-Atkins.org.

CiderFest Oct 6-7, Louisburg Cider Mill.

Ciderfest features craft booths, live music, gift and collectible vendors, and multiple barbecue and food vendors.

Watch cider-making and cider donutmaking. LouisburgCiderMill.com

Summit Art Fest Oct 12-14, Downtown Lee’s Summit. A free, outdoor, threeday, high quality, juried fine art event featuring more than 90 local, regional and national artists. Enjoy a unique blend of art and music in addition to the Student Art Pavilion, showcasing

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more than 200 works of art created by local middle and high school students.

SummitArtFest.org

the curmudgeonly businessman who requires the intervention of a few spectral guides to understand the true meaning of Christmas and life. KCRep.org

Botanical Brewfest Oct 13, 4:00-8:00, Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Enjoy more than 40 breweries, presenting more than 100 beers for tasting. Food, music, games and fun.

Featuring many local and regional breweries, restaurants and bands, all in our beautiful garden setting.

OPKansas.org/events/botanical-brewfest-2

Holidays Come Alive Nov 17, Union Station. Stay warm and cozy inside Kansas City’s favorite holiday destination, enjoying a variety of unique sights, sounds and experiences this holiday season. Connect with Kansas City’s holiday history and make new memories of your own in this most elegant holiday setting. UnionStation.org

Brew at the Zoo & Wine Too Oct 20, 7:00-10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy an evening of live music and sampling from a variety of local breweries and wineries.

Food trucks will also be on site to tame the roar in your belly! KansasCityZoo.org

A Christmas Carol Nov 16-Dec 30, Spencer Theatre. A ripping good telling of the classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge,

WinterFest Nov 17-Dec 30, Worlds of Fun. Thousands of sparkling lights transform the park with an inviting glow that warms the heart and lifts the spirit. Witness festive live shows, meet iconic holiday characters, join holiday activities like ice skating and cookie decorating, ride select park attractions and create lasting memories with family and friends. WorldsOfFun.com

Ice Skating at Crown Center Opening for the season Nov 2, Crown Center.

The Crown Center Ice Terrace is Kansas City’s only public, outdoor ice skating rink. Enjoy complimentary skating, coffee and hot chocolate from 6:00 to 9:00 in the morning on opening day.

CrownCenter.com Festival of Lights Nov 23-Jan 6, Powell Gardens. A lighting exhibition, artfully curated by the Powell Gardens horticulture staff, the Festival of Lights includes botanically-themed lighting displays that begin at the garden entrance and stretch along a mile-long walking path through six of the seven themed gardens. PowellGardens.org Downtown Dazzle Nov 24-Jan 1, Greater Downtown Area. This seasonal event brings people together from across the region to explore Downtown Kansas City and celebrate the season with holiday lights, special experiences and dining and shopping exclusives. DowntownDazzle.com

WinterFest Topeka Dec 1, Downtown Topeka. Looking for the perfect holiday gift but want a special shopping experience, too? WinterFest is for you! Featuring live reindeer and a sleigh, horse-drawn carriage rides along the avenue, and everyone from the Sugar Plum Fairy to Scrooge and Tiny Tim. VisitTopeka.com A Night of Painting Visit a paint-yourown canvas shop at various locations (search “Creative Canvas Shops” on KCParent.com for a complete guide).

BYOB painting classes and studios have popped up around town offering the perfect chance to get those creative juices flowing and do something out of the ordinary! Check shop calendars for a variety of canvas paintings and select an evening to learn how to complete your own masterpiece.

First Fridays in the Crossroads First Friday of every month, Crossroads Arts District. Enjoy the city’s liveliest and

most popular event. Arts organizations, galleries, studios and a wide variety of local businesses feature regional and national artists as well as live entertainment. Make it an evening with dinner and drinks from a colorful array of restaurants and entertainment venues. KCCrossroads.org/first-fridays

First Friday Weekend in the West Bottoms Friday-Sunday, West Bottoms District. The historic West Bottoms district, home to the KC Stockyards in the 1940s, is now famous for its haunted houses in the fall and its antique and boutique shops yearround. On the first weekend of each month, the shops are open late.

WestBottoms.com

Comedy City Friday & Saturday evenings, Comedy City. Enjoy live improv comedy shows created with suggestions from the audience, making for laugh-out-loud sketches.

ComedyCity.cc

Our interactive virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide has

HAVING A BABY SOON?

images, complete

Check out KC Parent’s Interactive Virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com

social media links

descriptions, video, and much more.

SEARCH HOSPITALS BY: • LOCATION • NICU LEVEL • CLASSES OFFERED

kcparent.com october-december 2018

33

bellylaughs

We asked KC Parent’s 53,000+ Facebook fans:

Stop eating the cat food.

– Sarah

What are things you’ve said since becoming a parent that you never thought you’d say?

Lisa: Get your head out of the toilet.

Katrena: Why are your socks in the freezer?

Julie: Everybody keep their tongues in their mouths.

Robyn: Get the cat out of the freezer.

Salena: Please stop eating cereal with your toes.

Crystal: Don’t stick the dog’s tail in your ear.

Toni: Stop putting blueberries in your diaper.

Adriane: No, you may not put chicken nuggets in your belly button.

Jon: Who put shredded cheese in my bed?

Robyn: Don’t pick your sister’s nose.

Brandy: Please don’t make me smell that.

Beth: Don’t lick that person’s car.

Cathy: Why do you have salami and cheese in your drawer?

Sarah: Stop eating the cat food.

Tanya: Play-Doh doesn’t go in your nose.

Melanie: Who put the remote control in the toilet?

Jessica: Don’t take your pants off in church.

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kcparent.com october-december 2018

Explore

Kansas City Zoo

Over 200 acres of adventure filled with more than 1,700 animals to explore. Travel all over the world with a trip to the Kansas City Zoo.

Visit Today!

STINGRAY BAY

–STINGRAY & SHARK TOUCH TANK–

NOW OPEN!

Always a New Adventure!

kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234 | Open Daily The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

For this face.

The Birth Place.

Exceptional medical care. Unforgettable experience.

Be comfortable and confident on your big day. The Birth Place’s outstanding medical team includes 20 board-certified Doctors Who Deliver, dedicated nurses and a NICU staff specially trained in the care of newborns at risk or experiencing difficulties after delivery. And you’ll appreciate comforts that feel more like a 5-star hotel than a hospital, including floor-to-ceiling windows, queen-sized beds and whirlpool tubs.

Take a virtual tour and meet our Doctors Who Deliver.

913-791-4396 olathehealth.org/birthplace