mommymedia : parenting

If You Give A Mom A Martini…

Madelyn8278 — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:47:00 GMT

Silence is golden, but for moms on-the-go, 10 glorious minutes to yourself might be the next best thing. If you’re wondering what to do during your next breather, Julie Klappas and Lyss Stern co-authored a charming book entitled If You Give A Mom A Martini: 100 ways to find 10 blissful minutes for yourself. Activities range from sweet to satirical, and your much needed mommy time-outs include anything from attempting a handstand to a good old “Stitch ‘n ***” (catching up with old knitting pals, of course).

This clever book is also sprinkled with tips from celebrity moms like talk show host Kelly Ripa and Melissa Joan Hart, fashion designers such as Catherine Malandrino and other mommy authors like Sophie Uliano.

Our favorite 10 minute time-out: Park It

“Arrive early to pick up your child at school, and watch the other mothers passive-aggressively vie for the good spots in the car-pool lane. It’s a relatively new sport – as competitive as NASCAR – and just as entertaining.”

This sassy book makes a great gift for the upcoming holiday season or new moms-to-be who will appreciate this comedic take on being a mom.

Purchase your copy here.

From Boys to Men: A Woman’s Guide to the Health of Husbands, Partners, Sons, Fathers, and Brothers

Satya — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:29:00 GMT

Emily Senay contributes her medical expertise and journalistic voice to provide information for which most women have long been clamoring. Certainly, we’ve all felt that frustration or confusion when our father, son, or significant other encounters a health problem and ignores it. It is the male epidemic of proving their manliness that has created an average shorter lifespan for males. Interestingly, men who are married live longer and stay healthier. When a man has a dedicated woman in his life, she unknowingly or unwittingly takes on the role as Dr. Mom. It’s this phenomenon that is at the center of Dr. Senay’s book.

As a daughter, wife and mother to a son, she gives the reader a very personal breakdown of each medical issue that the men in your life could face. The areas that were the most informative were the ones on cancer, depression, anger, circumcision, infections of the penis, obesity, sports and heart disease. The first chunk of the book makes the point that men rely on the women in their life to take care of their health. Statistics pointing to the responsible nature of women’s habits will have the female reader feeling pretty smug.

The section dedicated to young sons isn’t very comprehensive, but becomes more involved when discussing the teenage years. It’s really the information geared towards dealing with adult males that is the most exhaustive and valuable. Any woman will be able to get a better grasp on typical male issues and how to approach the possibly fragile male ego that avoids attention and treatment. This book is a great reference book to have in the house; although it is just slightly outdated because gender research moves so quickly.

For a mainstream guide to dealing with various male issues, this book is probably all you would need to get started. Reading it cover to cover is only for the truly ambitious, but it is valuable for a woman looking for a well-rounded understanding of men’s health. Pick up a copy here.

Baby and Toddler Yoga DVD

Madelyn8278 — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:51:00 GMT

Baby yoga is such a great idea but it’s not just for improving your baby’s flexibility. The exercises and gentle movements included in this DVD can help with digestion, promote sleep and encourage muscle development (theoretically helping your baby gain the strength to lift his or her head and sit up earlier). In addition, you and your baby will learn to communicate subtly with each other through practice. However, the beginning of this DVD seems to offer the mother very little in the way of exercise, which seemed odd. In addition, there were no accommodations for women who have had c-sections. Only a few of the movements for the infants seemed beneficial and enjoyable for the baby, but the few that were made the baby’s eyes light up with delight and their bodies seemed relieved afterwards. It was interesting to see how certain exercises visibly energized each part of the baby’s body.

The first part of this DVD had an ad-lib nature of teaching, making it seem unorganized and hard to follow. The toddler yoga on this DVD, however, is a completely different story. Some of the teachers were absolutely wonderful, the toddlers were so happy to take part in yoga and the parents got good exercise too. Even if you don’t like yoga, this section of the DVD will provide you with creative ways to interact with your toddler and the children’s antics while they do yoga will bring a smile to your face. That yoga “high” that you feel through practice is obviously a benefit children can feel too.

While this DVD is satisfactory and easily accessible even if you haven’t done yoga before, there are undoubtedly better ones on the market.

Pick up a copy here.

Vaccines: What You Should Know

Madelyn8278 — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 19:42:00 GMT

This book really covers a lot, but is still a quick read. Doctors Paul Offit and Louis Bell provide a clear understanding of vaccines, the diseases they treat, the origin of each vaccine, and how they are developed. The result is a clear-cut, factual representation of precisely what is being injected in us when we get vaccinated.

The information is extremely helpful in determining which vaccines are necessary. In addition to the bulk of the content on childhood immunizations, it also covers teenage, adult and elderly vaccinations as well. Quite honestly, while they claim to provide scientific evidence against theories that vaccines can cause certain disorders, they fail miserably and it’s obvious how biased their views are. However, that problem does not take away from the very basic and necessary information that they do provide.

If you are looking to solve the vaccine-disease debates, then look elsewhere. This book does, however, provide you with enough information to pursue further research with a solid understanding of the basics of vaccines.

Pick up your copy here.

Louder Than Words: A Mother’s Journey in Healing Autism

Satya — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:54:00 GMT

Louder Than Words is about a mother’s determination to heal her child. Jenny McCarthy has done it again with another book you can’t put down. She writes like she’s talking to her best friend, inspiring the reader with stories of strong maternal instincts during the most trying time of her life.

Similar to her other books, you can read it in a couple hours and it will make you laugh and cry at times. However, this book has a much different tone; this one is like watching an action film where the frantic mother is in a race against time to save her son. You don’t need to have an autistic child to appreciate this book; you just need to be a mom.

Her book reveals another world that most people are not aware of: a world in which moms are essentially abandoned by the medical community as they frantically search for answers to their child’s illness, where conventional doctors lead them nowhere and they must rely on each other for help. McCarthy strives to reveal to the world what life with autism is like and she does an incredible job. Despite the controversy surrounding her stance on vaccines and their possible link to autism, she says very little on the subject and instead educates the reader on autism, its increasing frequency, theories of its origin and most importantly, how to treat it when possible. No doubt, she will have you questioning the medical industry and autism’s link to vaccines, but she doesn’t dwell on these things. A group of mothers with autistic children asked her to be their voice and she has, with an unforgettable book that educates and provides the information that she prayed she had when her son was diagnosed. Pick up a copy here.

The Practical Encyclopedia of Pregnancy, Babycare and Nutrition for Babies and Toddlers

Satya — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:04:00 GMT

This is a great reference book for pregnant women and parents of children up to 18 months of age. It covers all the basics that mom and dad will need to know and includes valuable information on feeding a newborn, recipes, fussy-eaters guides, nutritional information and more.

The largest section features homemade baby food recipes. The recipes range from simple purees for babies just beginning to eat solids to thicker styles for older babies, as wells as more well-rounded recipes for toddlers. Each recipe includes nutritional information for easy reference.

This book may leave the reader wanting more information as it tends to cover topics broadly without delving into too much detail. However, it is a great starting point for expecting and new parents. Pick up a copy here.

NOVA: The Miracle of Life

Satya — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:25:00 GMT

The Miracle of Life is the first filmed record of human conception. This movie may seem like it’s going to show the development of a fetus. Unfortunately, it better resembles a sexual education class from the seventies. However, this film does serve as a good introduction to how conception happens for those who have no prior knowledge, such as adolescents.

It begins with a world view of how life transitioned from the sea to dry land before getting into the basics of human conception. The viewer is taken on the journey of the sperm and the egg in graphic detail. The most educated person will still probably learn a few things they didn’t know and at the very least be amazed at how the whole process really looks.

The last few minutes are the most fruitful for expectant parents. The growing fetus is shown in different stages with factual narration about what the fetus goes through. The film ends after showing a live birth in a hospital setting, which makes childbirth look easy as pie.

Overall, the movie is mildly educational, slightly entertaining, but probably not what an expectant mother is looking to watch. Pick up a copy here.

The Down’s Syndrome Handbook: A practical guide for parents and carers

Satya — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:26:00 GMT

For parents of children with Down’s Syndrome, this book is an all-encompassing guide to the challenges and hope of raising an affected child. Dr. Newton covers every part of a Down’s Syndrome child’s life and each decision that his or her parents must make. Beginning with a concise description of the nature of Down’s Syndrome and theories about its origin, the author has a personal and clear voice. He considers the emotional, social and physical implications of this disorder on the child and parents and empathizes but isn’t afraid to share the harsh truths of raising a child with Down’s Syndrome. As Down’s Syndrome children suffer higher rates of leukemia, diabetes and other diseases, they face compound problems which the author covers thoroughly, as well as ways to treat them. However, the author makes it clear that a relatively normal existence can be achieved and gives examples of extraordinary feats of individuals with Down’s Syndrome. He also gives examples of individuals who were able to live independently, despite the common misconception that Down’s Syndrome sufferers are dependent on others for life. The book covers so much; care of babies, education, emotional and sexual development, integration into society, laws and organizations, and experimental treatments. Although Dr. Newton is British and the book covers organizations and laws in the U.K., American and international parents of Down’s Syndrome children will still gain valuable insight and information from it. And its short length makes it readable for even the busiest parent. Pick up a copy here.

Babies and Other Hazards of Sex: How to Make a Tiny Person in Only 9 Months With Tools You Probably Have Around the Home

Satya — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:53:00 GMT

Dave Barry has an impressive following. Not only is he the author of more than 20 books, but he is also a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist whose articles appear in hundreds of newspapers every week. What draws millions of readers to Barry’s work is his uncanny ability to see everyday things from a uniquely humorous perspective. In “Babies and Other Hazards of Sex,” Barry shares these perspectives on everything from sex to childbirth to parenting, referring to natural childbirth as “a pop phenomenon of the 1960s that, along with paisley bell-bottoms and creative sideburns, deserves a rest.” This book is a fun and entertaining read for everyone, whether you’re a parent, non-parent or parent-to-be. While its comical exaggerations will make you laugh until your sides hurt, as all of Barry’s books do, “Babies and Other Hazards of Sex” also provides an accurate description of pregnancy, childbirth and parenthood. One reader says “Dave Barry hits the nail right on the head” with his advice to adults about dirty diapers, burping bibs and other not-so-pleasant baby behaviors. We think you’ll find Barry’s candid and humorous approach refreshing, especially if you’ve read other baby books that may have led you to believe that a baby will bring you nothing but joy and wonder. Basically, as this book tells you, be prepared for the gross stuff, too! Pick up a copy here.

They Lied! True Tales of Pregnancy, Childbirth and Breastfeeding

Satya — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:39:00 GMT

In a compilation of true-life stories submitted by parents around the world, co-creators of the book They Lied! True Tales of Pregnancy, Childbirth and Breastfeeding Theresa Kane and Tamara Talbot provide an outlet for mothers everywhere to share their funny, priceless, offbeat and often touching stories of pregnancy and parenthood. Filled from page to page with real-life experiences that celebrate the entire childbearing experience, from pre-conception gymnastics to infants dancing while they nurse, They Lied! is truly a delightful read.

With a heavy dose of humor and an equal touch of candor, an hour reading this book is like an hour spent with a pregnancy and parenting support group. One reader says, “You can’t understand the total experience of pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding without reading this book.” If you’re looking for a break from all the medical information you’ve received from your doctor and other pregnancy books, consider adding They Lied! to your baby shower gift registry. After experiencing countless uninvited belly rubs and “leaking” breasts, you’re sure to find relief in knowing that many women before you have survived uncomfortable and often embarrassing situations. Hilarious and heartwarming, They Lied! does a wonderful job of enlightening a topic that sometimes seems overwhelming, and helps expectant mothers realize they’re not in it alone. Pick up a copy here.

Becoming Parents: How to Strengthen Your Marriage as Your Family Grows

Satya — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 16:48:00 GMT

If you’re reading this, you’re probably a mom or dad-to-be and your mind has been swimming with thoughts on everything from labor and childbirth to infant care and nursery colors since you first received the baby news. What you may not have considered yet is how much pressure parenthood can put on your relationship with your partner. Enter “Becoming Parents: How to Strengthen Your Marriage as Your Family Grows,” a book designed specifically to help couples improve their relationships in preparation for parenthood. In their book, authors Pamela L. Jordan, Scott M. Stanley, and Howard J. Markman offer advice on how to survive this potentially trying time and come out of it with an even stronger bond. John Gray, acclaimed author of “Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, says, “’Becoming Parents’ teaches survival skills necessary to raise your child, while managing to thrive in your marriage. If you're thinking about having kids, read this book.” Not only will it help you communicate more clearly with each other and better manage conflict between you, but it will help you to create lasting solutions to problems and identify the underlying issues and expectations you have for each other. “Becoming Parents” addresses larger issues like commitment, forgiveness and intimacy, as well as specific topics that are often the subjects of everyday arguments, such as who gets up when the baby cries at night and the division of household tasks. Best of all, the useful exercises in each chapter can help you and your partner build and maintain a happy home for you and your baby. Pick up a copy here.

The Parent’s Guide to Natural Health Care for Children

Satya — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:26:00 GMT

A comprehensive guide to overall health with a focus on body, mind and spirit, The Parent’s Guide to Natural Health Care for Children is a wonderful addition to any parent’s household.

It begins with a comprehensive breakdown of what a healthy diet consists of, which nutrients are necessary and how to avoid eating disorders and other emotional eating habits. Author Karen Sullivan emphasizes the benefits of organic foods and explains in depth why it’s important to avoid genetically modified ingredients and over-processed foods. It’s difficult not to go organic after reading the material provided.

Later, Sullivan focuses on exercise for everyone in the family, including helpful tips for how to get adolescents motivated. Another chapter is devoted to sleeping habits and how to create an effective bedtime routine. Other helpful information includes tips for creating a natural home, such as the practice of Feng Shui. Another part of the book discusses ways to evaluate mental, emotional and spiritual health.

The majority of The Parent’s Guide however, speaks of the nature of illness and how to treat it with non-invasive techniques. Sullivan discusses acupuncture, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, art therapy, music therapy, massage, Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine and much more.

When you sit down with this book, you may expect a flat-out rejection of mainstream medicine and traditional styles of parenting. Instead, you’ll find a thought-provoking down-to-earth consideration of the many ways of approaching these topics.

An important read for any parent who wonders about natural health care, The Parent’s Guide can help you learn how to help your child’s body, mind and spirit develop naturally. Pick up a copy here.

The Happiest Baby on the Block

Madelyn8278 — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 19:49:00 GMT

With a five-star rating on Amazon and more than 200 stellar customer reviews, “The Happiest Baby on the Block” teaches you how to transport your baby from screaming to serene. In a few simple steps, Dr. Harvey Karp promises to help you switch on your baby’s “calming reflex,” a sort of automatic off-switch for any baby’s crying.

It almost sounds too good to be true, right? Still, thousands of parents, from working moms to superstar celebrities like Madonna and Michelle Pfeiffer, have turned to Dr. Karp to discover his secrets for making babies happy.

Many couples think Dr. Karp’s techniques are successful because he acknowledges the existence of a “fourth trimester,” referring to the first three months of your baby’s life and her need to feel as she did while she was in the womb. These techniques are summarized on the DVD as the five S’s: swaddling (tightly, to resemble the environment of the uterus), side or stomach position (also known as the “football hold”), shushing (at the same sound level as her crying), swinging (to replicate your movements when she was inside you), and sucking (using your finger or a pacifier).

Annie, once the frustrated mother of a 4-week-old, found great success with “The Happiest Baby.” She says, “Our son went from being fussy before bedtime … to drifting off to sleep without any drama. We couldn’t believe the transformation.”

In one bonus area of the DVD, Dr. Karp answers questions from real parents about calming babies and helping them fall asleep. In another, the entire contents of the DVD can be viewed in Spanish. And our favorite bonus feature of all: three tracks of a wonderfully calming mix of womb sounds and pulsation that can be played individually or in succession to gently guide your baby to sleep.

Get a copy here.

101 Tips for Raising Healthy Kids with Diabetes

Satya — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 18:49:00 GMT

By Laura Hieronymus MSEd, APRN, BC-ADM, CDE and Patti Geil MS, RD, FADA, CDE

It’s not clear whether 101 Tips for Raising Healthy Kids with Diabetes is intended for parents of recently diagnosed diabetic children, or for someone who’s already been dealing with the disease for some time. It is apparent, however, that the way the book is laid out isn’t the best way to present the information provided.

Most of the “tips” are extremely basic and foundational. They are sometimes redundant and often advise a parent to consult their diabetes care team. It would be better laid out in basic chapter format and geared towards the inexperienced parent of a child with diabetes than in numbered tip form, presenting the information sporadically.

101 Tips would be most helpful to someone who may feel overwhelmed by the recent diagnosis of a child with diabetes and doesn’t have much time to read. In such a situation, however, it would still benefit the parent to find a more comprehensive book, as diabetes can change almost every aspect of the child’s life.

As for the seasoned parent of a diabetic child, this book might provide a few useful tips, particularly the specific information about sports, riding the bus and trick-or-treating.

You can pick up a copy here.

The World According to Mister Rogers

Madelyn8278 — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:12:00 GMT

We all remember Fred Rogers, perhaps more fondly as “Mister Rogers,” the host of the internationally acclaimed children's television show “Mister Rogers' Neighborhood,” which was in production for more than thirty years. When he died in 2003, he was one of the most recognizable and beloved faces on television, and he remains so today.

The World According to Mister Rogers is a small collection of his essays and other writings, from songs to speeches, which surround themes like “The Courage to Be Yourself” and “We Are All Neighbors.” With this book, Mister Rogers extends the teachings from his show about keeping promises, finding strength in helping others and not being afraid to cry.

His writing style is both direct and sincere. While the book may be geared toward adults who watched the show as children, his messages are simple enough for a child to understand. When Rogers’ writes about September 11, for example, he describes it as “what some people do when they don’t know anything else to do with their anger.”

The World According to Mister Rogers is a touching and inspirational read that illustrates one man’s incomparable compassion for the human race. Get a copy here.