When I used to smoke, I felt ashamed. As a nurse, I knew better. My HBHC clients know it too. They agree when I say, "stopping smoking is the single best thing we can do for our health and our children's health." The challenge is to put our knowledge into action. Vaping is sometimes marketed… Continue reading Two things parents need to quit smoking
Author: Jody Smith BScN RN
I'm a public health nurse with Healthy Babies Healthy Children. I visit expecting and new parents in their homes and provide ideas and tools to help their children reach their full potential. I love seeing parents grow in their confidence and use their own strengths and traditions to connect with their little ones.
I have worked at Toronto Public Health since 2017, after graduating from York University with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) in 2016.
What’s so special about being one and a half?
To celebrate turning 1½, all children in Ontario are invited for a special well-baby 18 month checkup with your family doctor or nurse practitioner. This is an exciting stage in your child's growth and learning as they become more independent. Parents need to book this in-depth checkup for two reasons: Now is the ideal time… Continue reading What’s so special about being one and a half?
Immunize wise
Children are precious and they depend on us to make decisions for them. Vaccinating children is the best way to protect them from serious diseases. Vaccines stimulate children's immune system, without making them sick. As we head into flu season, it's time for children over 6 months and their families to get their flu vaccine.… Continue reading Immunize wise
Drafting your parenting team
Many of the parents I work with as a Healthy Babies Healthy Children nurse find they have anxious feelings as they try to make informed choices for their child and their family. It's normal to worry. And there is something you can do about it. As a parent, you can recruit a team to support… Continue reading Drafting your parenting team
5 great ideas for a baby shower gift
You're excited to welcome a new baby, and want to choose just the right gift. For the first year of life, babies need to be fed and loved, cuddled and sung to, precious gifts that are difficult to wrap! That means the perfect baby shower gift is one that meets parents' needs, giving them support… Continue reading 5 great ideas for a baby shower gift