Most of us think that having a baby will be the happiest time in our lives; however not everyone feels joy or that "love at first sight" feeling. Feelings of guilt, sadness, stress, or anxiety can affect the early weeks and months of parenthood which can make it hard to enjoy a new baby. I've… Continue reading Postpartum Depression – it’s not your fault!
Category: Parenting
Gender stereotypes & toys: The impact on children
The holidays are approaching and if there are children on your gift-giving list, there's a chance you are going to be visiting a toy store – where gender stereotypes rule the layout of the store! Here are some tips from our sexual health nurse, Jennifer Katz, RN, to help us navigate through those kids' lists.… Continue reading Gender stereotypes & toys: The impact on children
People games: Peek-a-Boo, I See You!
As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I provide families with practical tips on how they can bond with their child and create fun opportunities to teach their child new language. I often recommend people games! People games are play routines that you have created with your child that do not involve any toys. Keep in mind that… Continue reading People games: Peek-a-Boo, I See You!
Zika virus: Planning a pregnancy & travelling
When my best friend recently shared with me that she and her partner were planning to start a family, I couldn't be happier. This exciting news took a turn when she told me they were travelling to their dream destination spot in South America. Alarm bells went off in my head as I asked if… Continue reading Zika virus: Planning a pregnancy & travelling
Physical activity & children: What’s the connection?
Being physically active is important at any age. The early years (0-4 years old) is an important time to create healthy behaviour and patterns that your child will build on as they grow. Every little bit counts, but, more is better, at every age. We can encourage children to be active for life through developing… Continue reading Physical activity & children: What’s the connection?
Baby’s first smile
After weeks of waking up for late night feeds, diaper changes, and randomly waking up wondering if baby is ok, you are about to get the moment you have been waiting for (or perhaps you already have), your baby's first smile! The first moment I saw that smile as a new mom, the one that… Continue reading Baby’s first smile
Baby & Music: Everyone loves a dance party!
Ever find yourself humming along to a rhythm and singing lyrics from a song that you have a memory or a specific interaction with? Music impacts our life in so many ways! It can affect our mood, give us energy, help us focus, and trigger memories – just to name a few. And guess what?… Continue reading Baby & Music: Everyone loves a dance party!
Foods during pregnancy: Organic vs non-organic
Both organic foods and conventional (non-organic) are equal in terms of nutrient content. I say…it is a personal choice. The difference is in how they are produced. Organic foods are produced without the following: Synthetic (human-made) pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) antibiotics or growth hormones Irradiation or ionizing radiation However, organic farmers… Continue reading Foods during pregnancy: Organic vs non-organic
Screen time and Babies
We know that babies and young children learn best from us and from social interaction. With all the technology available, people are using devices with their babies. In fact, 92% of parents report that their 1 year old has already used a mobile device, some starting as young as 4 months. Earlier this year, I… Continue reading Screen time and Babies
Gingered Butternut Squash Soup
As colder weather has arrived, I start to think of what soups to make to stay warm and cozy. Winter squash is now readily available, locally grown and reasonably priced. I enjoy using butternut squash but acorn squash, buttercup squash, Hubbard squash and spaghetti squash are some other varieties you may also see in store.… Continue reading Gingered Butternut Squash Soup
