When I mention "communication", a lot of parents think I only mean talking. But there are so many ways that you and your baby communicate that don't involve any words at all – through gestures, body movements, touch, and facial expressions. These forms of (non-verbal) communication are important stepping stones to talking. How your baby… Continue reading How do babies communicate when they are too young to talk?
Category: Baby’s First Year
World Maternal Mental Health Day
This year, May 5, 2021 is World Maternal Mental Health Day. It is a day to raise awareness of perinatal mood disorders. 1 in 5 women experience anxiety and/or depression during pregnancy or post-partum. It is one of the most common complications of pregnancy and childbirth yet it is often unnoticed and untreated. The COVID-19… Continue reading World Maternal Mental Health Day
Tips to be more mindful
This past year has been challenging. We have posted many blogs encouraging us to take care of ourselves especially our mental health. One of the strategies that comes up a lot is mindfulness. But what is mindfulness and how does it help us? The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines mindfulness as: "The practice of maintaining a nonjudgmental… Continue reading Tips to be more mindful
A good latch is important for breastfeeding
Latching is how your baby takes your breast and your nipple into their mouth. A good latch is very important for breastfeeding. Having a good latch will help your baby to breastfeed well. A poor latch can lead to: a hungry baby sore nipples decreased milk supply Some babies can latch themselves while others may… Continue reading A good latch is important for breastfeeding
Advice for new parents
When I was pregnant I received so much advice. Family and friends, random people in the grocery store, social media, the internet - they all had advice to give me even when I wasn't asking for it. So how do you sort through all this advice? How do you know what to listen to and… Continue reading Advice for new parents
Emergency Birth Control
Studies show more than 50% of pregnancies in Canada are not planned. With this in mind, have you thought about your reproductive life plan? Perhaps you have decided that you are not ready for a pregnancy just now …but then, life throws you a surprise. For example, in the heat of the moment, you and… Continue reading Emergency Birth Control
Where to get breastfeeding support during the COVID-19 pandemic
Just had a baby and not sure where you can go for breastfeeding support? So many services have changed due to COVID-19. Some clinics have closed and others are only offering virtual services. Toronto Public Health is offering telephone and virtual breastfeeding support by video call if needed. If you would like a Public Health… Continue reading Where to get breastfeeding support during the COVID-19 pandemic
Let’s Talk!
On January 28, 2021 Canadians are being encouraged to talk about their mental health. We are facing challenges that we have never faced before. From social distancing to lockdowns, fear of becoming sick to fear of losing loved ones. When it comes to mental health, now more than ever, every action counts. Some stress and… Continue reading Let’s Talk!
Things to do with your baby or young child during lockdown
Are you struggling with how to keep your child engaged and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic? Are you running out of ideas and activities? Here are a few tips to help your day go a little easier: Keep a daily routine. Children do well when they know what to expect and breaking the day into… Continue reading Things to do with your baby or young child during lockdown
Fire Safety: The Home Escape Plan
Keeping your child safe is a full-time job as any parent knows. An important part of home safety is your home fire escape plan. Here's Josephine Park, a Firefighter and Public Educator with Toronto Fire Services, to share her expertise and walk us through the steps. As a Firefighter, Public Educator and a mom of… Continue reading Fire Safety: The Home Escape Plan