A Healthy Little Note: Issue #24
No matter what age you're at a nap can be a blessing or a curse.
Timed just right, you wake up refreshed and raring to go; too short or too long you run the risk of turning into a cranky zombie.
The same happens with our little ones - especially if their naps run on the shorter side.
This week I have some tips on how to avoid those cat nap catastrophes and turn your kiddo into a napping natural.
Also in this week's newsletter I share an article on balancing how much to play with your kids and when to let their imagination do the rest, a powerful article on the importance of taking care of moms (especially new ones!), a crazy cool illustrated article on baby gear and development, and a link to a super versatile (and cute) cardigan for nursing moms.
No time for naps today - let's go!
* * *
1. THE SHORT NAP STRUGGLE IS REAL
Does your baby struggle with short naps?
If so, I'm sure you're more than familiar with that dreaded 30-45 minute cat nap. As the time on the clock approaches you start saying a little prayer for your little one to sleep just a few minutes longer...just this once. PUH-LEASE!
A ton of stuff can factor into successful napping including your baby's age, optimal sleep conditions, and those micro-snoozes that seem to throw our little one's sleep off in a matter of minutes.
In this week's blog post I identify some culprits behind the cat nap and ways to extend your little's sleep cycle.
Still not sure how to curb those super short naps? Don't worry, I've got ya - go here to schedule a FREE 15-minute call with me and we can chat about it!
Or, just reply to this email with any questions you have, and I'll be happy to answer.
* * *
2. DON'T PLAY WITH YOUR KIDS
Did I get your attention?
Of course I'm not saying to NEVER play with your kids, but as this super honest article from Abbey Fatica at Medium Parenting suggests, sometimes letting our kids run with their imaginations is better than any game they could ever play with us.
The article also suggests that when play time is over and you want to get in some quality kiddo time you can take a hike, play a favorite board game, or introduce them to your favorite movie.
I completely agree - these are the moments that make unforgettable memories.
* * *
3. POSTPARTUM CARE GONE VIRAL
"We need someone to make sure we're ok too...Our world forgets about mothers...we slip through the cracks...we become background noise."
There is nothing more pure and honest than a new mom who speaks her truth about her birth experience.
Recently new mom Anneliese Lawton shares her story, points out the surprising lack of postpartum care she experienced, and gives an impassioned plea about the importance of taking care of moms.
* * *
4. BABY MOVERS & SHAKERS
Can you think of anything cooler than being a biologist AND a cartoonist? Not to mention a super cool mom?
Cara Gormally takes us on an illustrated journey of baby gear and its effects on motor development.
She makes some pretty convincing (and cute) arguments for less baby gear and more tummy time!
* * *
5. NURSING IN STYLE
How often do you hear about trendy nursing-wear?
Approximately...never.
If you're nursing you must check out this pullover cardigan. It's a great piece to wear that's both stylish and acts as a nursing cover without even looking like one.
Heck, even if you're not nursing I'd still get it because it's super cute and you can wear it so many different ways.
* * *
That's it for this issue!
Hope you enjoyed it and I'd LOVE if you shared it with your friends on social media or spread the word on the local Mommy gossip circuit - thanks!
Susie
PS - You can send people here to subscribe to get the next Healthy Little Note!