Category: parenting

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baby Newborn Parenthood parenting Postpartum Pregnancy Resources

How to find the right pediatrician for you!

With pregnancy comes all the parenting decisions along the way.  They begin just about….welp….immediately!  One decision to think about before your baby comes is finding the right pediatrician for your family.    Follow our tips to help you find the perfect provider!

TIP #1- Aligning with the care philosphy

Just like us doulas say about aligning with your midwife or OB, you want your parenting philosophies and/or health philosophies to align with the right doctor for your baby.

There are different practice models of doctors that see and treat infants. Family doctors see the whole family, yes including you if you want, and pediatricians specialize in care of babies and children.  If you are unsure which model sounds better for you, simply call both types of practices to interview.   That’s right, I said it, interview.  Ideally you will have an opportunity to have a phone call, zoom meeting, or an actual tour of the practice.  Asking your questions ahead of time will help you determine if it feels like a good fit for what you are looking for. 

Don’t forget to take into consideration what you prefer in a medical doctor. These preferences will likely be what you will be wanting from your baby’s doctor as well.  Things like holistic care options or being in a larger practice size are preferences for some families for example.

What should you ask at the interview? Here are some sample ideas:

What level of familiarity and support with breastfeeding (if it is a feeding choice for you) is offered?

What is the practice’s policies on vaccines?  Are delayed schedules, ok? 

Does the provider perform circumcision?  Does the provider have familiarity with intact and circumcised individuals?

What parenting philosophies are supported?

Does the provider have any specialized training?

Tip #2 – Is it practical for your family’s needs?

Distance- Take in consideration how far away the office is.  Don’t forget beyond well-baby visits there may be a day your child feels unwell. How long of a car-ride are you willing to actually endure? 

Insurance- On the back of your insurance card there should be a link to a website to search providers, or a phone number to call for a list in your area.  Another option of course is asking the pediatrician’s office if your insurance is accepted.  This can be a huge factor that dictates where you can go and not all doctors take all kinds unfortunately. 

Hospital affiliation- Every doctor will have privileges at specific hospitals.  Does it matter to you if your doctor is affiliated at the hospital of your preference?  Does it matter if your doctor has privileges at the closest hospital to you?  Also upon giving birth a pediatrician will look over your newborn. If your provider is affiliated with your birth place they could be the one to do this. Is this something you are hoping for?

Office hours and systems- What hours is the office open? Some things to look for are evening hours and weekend hours. If there is an emergency what does that look like?

Tip #3 – Wade through the reviews

Crowdsourcing family, friends, and the internet can be a great way to find some names of providers.  Our recommendation is to take in consideration the priorities and wishes of those folk who loved those providers.  Sally may just absolutely looooooove Dr. Smith, but Sally may also have sought out a completely opposite style of provider than what you would like. It is still good to ask around though because it still creates a list that is an excellent jumping board for you to get started.

Go deeper on the internet reviews. Just glancing at a star rating and dismissing a provider isn’t always the best practice. If there are lower reviews see if there is an explanation regarding the rating. You may not agree with what they found negative. Is the negative something regarding office systems, like wait times, or is it the actual care of the provider? If the practice is able to respond to negative review how was it handled? This can speak loud volumes to how the office truly is.

So putting a little time into the decision before baby is here ,can hopefully lead you in the right direction for picking a doctor that feels just right. Don’t forget life is fluid! Priorities change. So after you pick the doctor that feels right and months go on, if the fit isn’t as you imagined you can always go through these tips again and find an even better fit.

If you have a fantastic family doctor or pediatrician you would like to share with us, leave their name in the comments!

Authored by Andrea Stainbrook

 

Categories
baby Newborn parenting

Changing Table Checklist

All babies poop. And because of that parents need a changing area station. We got a perfect changing table checklist for you that has all the things you may want in that location!

Keep in mind when you are prepping the area that it is best to have all the supplies you may want during a diaper change within reach. If your home has more than one level you may even want to consider a changing area on each floor. Another option is one changing table location and then also using a little caddy with changing supplies for those quick changes on the floor or bed. You can bring the supplies to you!

As for the changing table itself there are a variety of options!

Some dressers have an area on top that accommodates a changing pad. Whats great about those is the storage is in drawers beneath it and it hides all of your items. There are traditional changing tables that usually have a couple big shelves below and are at a good height to limit your back strain. You can even use the crib! A nice flat place is perfect. Having a changing pad with covers helps too. Most pads come with buckles as well (although please don’t walk away from your baby).

So that you don’t overthink it check out our idea list below and/or print out the checklist too!

Changing Area and Laundry List of Supplies

  • Changing table space with pad (2-3 covers) and storage – top of dresser, wardrobe cabinet, in crib
  • Baby wipes
  • Diapers (2 packs newborn, 1 mega store case of size 1-2) or 20 cloth diapers with covers
  • Diaper rash cream
  • Olive oil to put on baby’s bottom in the beginning of sticky meconium days – applying before poops makes it easier to clean
  • Vaseline – if baby is circumcised
  • Diaper pail
  • Trash can with liner bags
  • Baby friendly “green” nursery all purpose cleaner 
  • Onesies (3 or more)
  • Day time outfits (3-5) – these can also be night time outfits
  • Dirty laundry hamper
  • Laundry soap (free and clear or “green” laundry soap)
  • Laundry stain remover
  • Clean clothes laundry basket
  • Baby hangers if using closet for clothing 

As you begin to arrange your home and prepare for your baby, don’t forget to have fun! If you like crossing things off a list click below and print out our checklist!

Download our printable pdf! Download

Want more information on doulas? Contact us today!

Categories
Doula Education Infant Feeding Newborn parenting Postpartum Resources Sleep

3 Benefits of attending a newborn care class

There are classes for everything. So why would a class about newborns help the new parent? Let me tell you the benefits!

Benefit #1: BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE!

It can be scary to have responsibility for the everyday needs of these little humans. No matter the exposure to actual day to day tasks of newborn care you have had, even with seasoned aunties and uncles, when it comes to your own it is normal to have some anxiety. One mission of Metro Detroit Doula Services is to instill strength and reduce any parenting fears our clients may have. We know you truly will know your baby the best and we want you to feel that way as well! After class many of our participants leave feeling a little lighter as they feel more confident that they really can handle this parenting gig! At least the newborn stage 😉

Benefit #2: TIPS & TRICKS FROM EXPERIENCED DOULAS!!!

Our class is taught by me, Andrea and/or Amy. We are the owners of Metro Detroit Doula Services and have been Certified Postpartum & Infant Care Doulas for years! Our experience has taught us some sweet swaddling skills, secrets to introducing a pacifier, and other little things we like to share with our clients. Having a few little extra tid-bits of knowledge and help make you feel more secure in your newborn skillset!

Benefit #3: LEAVE FEELING LIKE YOU CAN NAIL NEWBORN BABY BASICS LIKE A BOSS.

Sleeping, eating, and pooping, are a newborn’s favorite activities. A Newborn Care Class will walk you through what to expect for your newborn’s sleep, feeding, and how to change that dirty diaper! We walk you through what to expect from the moment you arrive home from the hospital and into those early parenthood weeks. We answer those questions of, “what does newborn poo actually look like anyway?” To understanding infant feeding options and what newborn sleep patterns look like. Walk away from this class with pride as you will have insight in how to tackle all these basic baby needs!

So take a moment and head on over to our classes page to see when our next Newborn Care Class is being offered! Click on the link there to register. Don’t see a date that matches your schedule? We even do private sessions in your home as well!

Authored by: Andrea Stainbrook

Categories
baby Entertainment Family parenting

Parenthood: These Comedians Bring The Laughter

Truth be told I am a little obsessed with comedy. First off I love to laugh. I love to spread laughter and I totally dig being on the receiving end of well said jokes. I’ll be honest, I even like bad jokes. Give me an opportunity for a good time and a good laugh and I am all in!

The streaming services are killin’ it lately by churning out some great stand-up comedy specials.

I have been gobbling them up! One common theme is standing out in quite a few of them…. material about parenting and pregnancy! I swear its like they are making these specials tailored made for me. Even more I think what it really showcases is we all can relate to what it is like to be a parent. And sometimes it is freaking hilarious!

Check out my list below of fantastic comedians and their comedy specials all related to pregnancy, babies, or parenting!

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE GIRLS!

The ladies of comedy are on fire! Let’s start with a few of them.

-ALI WONG

Check her out on Netflix! She has two specials you can catch there. “Ali Wong Baby Cobra” and “Ali Wong Hard Knock Wife.” She is raw, a little raunchy, real, and so hilarious. She’s even pregnant on stage in both specials! “Baby Cobra” has material about pregnancy (spoiler- she mentions a doula) and “Hard Knock Wife” dives into motherhood, picking up where she left off 2 years after her first special. She seriously is one of the funniest people and I love her ability to tell it like it is!

-AMY SCHUMER

This chick has got it! She is also pregnant on stage and she isn’t afraid to show it! She’s so relatable and is very real on what its like to be pregnant. Some of her special even talks about her experience with hyperemesis gravidarum. Amy is an all time fave of mine for sure! Check her out on Netflix.

-TIG NOTARO

Tig is a super talented woman. She not only has a stand-up special, “Tig Notaro Happy To Be Here,” but also a documentary called “Tig.” Her documentary is an honest film about her experiences in life and it includes her path to parenthood in it. It will have you in tears. Her special “Happy To Be Here” includes tales from parenting and so much more! Both of these can be found on Netflix.

NOW FOR THE FELLAS.

-SETH MEYERS

I had never seen Seth Meyers perform stand up. His recent release, “Lobby Baby” had me smiling ear to ear and laughing out loud. It was so good! He recounts the births of his sons and also speaks about parenting roles in a marriage. So worth the watch, check it out on Netflix.

JIM GAFFIGAN

– I have enjoyed Jim Gaffigan since he first started with the “Hot Pocket” jokes. He really struck a cord though while I was pregnant with my second and I watched his special “Mr. Universe.” He truly gave me belly laughs as he talked about parenting and his kids. Since that special just about every one of his comedy specials talks about being a parent. He has made a lot of specials. You can find these on Netflix: “Mr. Universe,” “Cinco,” “Obsessed,” “King Baby,” and “Beyond the Pale.” His special “Noble Ape” and his most recent addition “Quality Time” are on Amazon Prime.

NATE BARGATZE

–Nate has quickly become an all time favorite of mine. His timing and cadence are impeccable. His first appearance on Netflix was a part of the series “The Stand Ups” and his performance is episode one of season one. He has bits about his young daughter and being a dad in that half hour show. That show was so successful he went on to create a full length comedy special on Netflix called “The Tennessee Kid.” I promise you, you will enjoy it!!

So set up a night ready to binge watch some comedy. Keep in mind this is just a short list, but a fabulous list nonetheless. I don’t want to completely overwhelm you! I see a second and third part to this blog perhaps?

Laughter can certainly brighten a day and a mood. So go get your smile on, sit down, relax, pop some popcorn and enjoy!

Authored by Andrea Stainbrook

Categories
baby Family parenting

Simple tips for a successful beach outing

Summer is upon us in Michigan! That means it is time to hit the beach! Beach outings with little ones in tow can sometimes be stressful. So follow these tips to help keep you from being a sweaty, hot, overwhelmed mess.

Tip #1- Gather all your items first

Know you are planning to hit the beach that day? Start collecting your items that you want to bring and place them in one specific spot. This way when it is time to leave you will have everything in one place. If you dig lists make your list and start gathering as soon as the night before. Possible items you may want to remember:

Kid practical items: swim diapers, sunblock, sun-hats, change of clothes, water shoes, sandals, snacks, water bottles

Beach practical items: beach blanket, towels, umbrella, beach chair, sand toys, flotation devices if allowed (check with each beach’s rules)

Tip #2- Plan where to go and for how long

Once you decide which beach you want to visit, maybe Spencer Beach, Kensington Park, or Stony Creek, get an idea of how long is the right amount of time for you. There is no wrong answer here. A short stay is just as fun as a long stay. If your stay is longer make sure you upgrade your snacks and include a meal like sandwiches. The worst is being hungry after a lot of playing and sun! It is also always a good parenting tool to give reminders to your little ones that your leaving in 30 mins, 20 mins, 10 mins etc. in case leaving fun places is hard to do.

Tip #3- Enjoy making memories

Hang out with your kiddos! Make a sand castle with the biggest moat ever! Dip your toes in too! Take pictures! Expect moments of sand in your food, maybe your eye, and a kiddo melting down for a second or two. But also expect your baby or kid to have a great time and make their own memories.

There is something magical about a Michigan summer. We truly know how to soak up the sun after months of cold and snow. Let the sun hit your skin, the smell of the lake air hit your nose, and enjoy playing with your family!

Categories
Family life after baby parenting Postpartum

End of the school year feelings

It is that time. The time when months of routine, schedule, and learning come to an end. It is the end of the school year. Whether you are cheering as a parent or anxious at the idea of adjusting to summer, no matter the feelings all of them are valid and its OK. For some the shift brings some stress as it is a new adjustment. For some it is seamless and easy.

For me I am mostly feeling excited.

There will be some challenges to adjust to I am sure. I work from home a lot. Figuring out those hours again that I can focus on work while we are all home together will be an adjustment.

But my kids are still little. They grow so fast and I swear by each day their independence increases with leaps and bounds. I want to enjoy the moments. And for the record I will focus on moments. I know I will hear, “Mom, I am bored.” “Mom can we do this? That? What about this?” I know my patience will shorten and some days I will be irritated. That is life as a parent.

But there will be days of snuggles, and sun, and play.

I will rub sunblock onto their creamy soft skin. I will get to judge them on their underwater handstands. 10’s seem to be the best answer every time! I will cut up fresh fruit to enjoy in the blistering sun. I will ride my bike alongside them setting goals to go on farther, longer, rides this summer. I will wipe dripping melted popsicle off their cheeks. I will veg out with them and watch their favorite shows. I will pop popcorn over the stove for family movie nights. I will sit out back and watch them play with the neighborhood kids. I will roast marshmallows and make smores over the bonfire. Limit 2 kids! OK maybe 3! We will read together, we will draw. We will run through the sprinkler and slide down the slip-n-slide. I will let them stay up late and sleep-in in the morning. I will have mornings of homemade pancake breakfasts, and others of quick cereal.

I want to embrace this summer. We may never get around to making those cute summer bucket lists. We may not spend enough time outside. We may have lazy days. We may have boring days. We may have busy days. But we will do them together.

As the school bus makes its final stop for the year I may cry. Tears of joy that we get a little time more together. Tears of “I can’t believe how much and how fast they are growing.” Then I will offer my hand to my girls, see if I get to hold one of theirs one last time home. Then we will embark on our remarkable summer.

Authored by: Andrea Stainbrook

Categories
baby Family parenting

Let’s let go of mom guilt

by Andrea Stainbrook

Mom guilt. It is real. It exists. And it starts early! From the moment you discover you will be bringing a baby into this world it seems ways to feel guilty start creeping in. As a doula and a mother I hear about it at all different points of parenthood.

Are you eating the right foods? Are you exercising enough? Don’t do this. You should do this. “When I was pregnant I did this.” “You plan on using that?” “I would follow this parenting philosophy!” AAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!! Social media, and well intentioned, friends and family can infiltrate your mind and you can begin doubting yourself and your decisions. When you once felt confident about a particular thing, you now wonder if you are messing this whole parenting gig up!

I don’t have a why. Why do we do this to ourselves? Why do we doubt our abilities to be wonderful loving parents? I do it too!

How can we stop it?

I wish I could shout from the rooftops to make us all believe in the fabulous parents we all really are. Even when we slip up, even when we aren’t the most patient, even when we choose the drive through over home cooked meals, we are excellent parents.

Let’s navigate this together. What are some things we can do to help reduce the guilt when we feel it come on. Here are some things I do.

Stop comparing ourselves to others. You truly need to do you. Most often we feel worse after a round of comparing ourselves to others.
I know I do. We tend to compare ourselves to someone we think has it all together, the images of perfection we see, or the mother we made up as the perfect mother. I will tell you a secret. NO ONE is absolutely perfect.

Focus on the good moments. Look at your day. Think of a moment that you are proud of. It doesn’t have to be an Earth shattering parenting moment. Sure maybe you wish you had a redo of the morning. But let that morning go and work on the moment you are in.

A bad moment doesn’t mean a bad day.

Try to remember ALL that you do day in and day out. Know that it is hard work and you are doing it! It may not be always glamorous but your child loves you for it.

Find your friends or talk to your partner. Reach out to your partner. Tell them how you are feeling. Ideally they will listen and stop the guilt spiral! They should raise you up and remind you of your awesomeness. If you don’t have a close inner circle of friends that lifts you up it’s time to seek them out. Friends that listen and don’t shame. Some have luck finding new friends at local parenting groups. You need someone in your life that you can get vulnerable with and they will simply support you and listen.

Real mom friends don’t let other mom friends stay stuck in a cycle of guilt.

When we catch our friends or family feeling guilt lets pull them up! Listen to them. Let them get it out. Then point out the positives. Remind them of their great qualities and remind them that we all go there sometimes.

Together, I believe we can all work hard on letting go of the mom guilt! Believe in yourself and your abilities, accept that you will make mistakes, and know you have support to remind you of how magical you really are!

Categories
life after baby parenting Postpartum Uncategorized

New Mom in Metro Detroit Seeking Friend

by Andrea Stainbrook

Hello! I am a new mom looking for a friend, likely another new mom, to share this journey with. While taking a break from my busy work life, I am now busy being a parent to young children. Instead of waking up early to squeeze in some gym time, I am up early squeezing diaper cream on a fresh angry rash.

I am looking for someone who is good at patching together stories over the phone that are broken up between calming hungry cries and hollerin’ “gentle hands on the doggie’s tail!” I like to do outings and am open to playdates, or perusing Target while pushing our strollers.

I am over all the judgement and guilt online and looking for real life connection. Can we just be real with each other as we are doing our best to be the best we can? I will pour us each some tea and we can just share what our days are.

I love getting brunch but with the baby it is sometimes easier to get it delivered. Let’s get together and order meals in!

Let’s face it, motherhood can be lonely sometimes. Let’s be friends!

Becoming a mom is a wonderful but tough job! What would your “friend ad” say? Go on try it….New Mom Seeking……