Birth Hypnosis: Hypnobabies and Birthing Without Fear

Birth hypnosis sounds a little new age and strange, but we live in a society where childbirth is an event to be feared. It is wrought with deep concern about danger and pain. This view is perpetuated by sensational news stories and TV shows; it’s shared and gossiped about at baby showers and playdates. Labor and birth is largely viewed as a process to be managed and timed, monitored and moved along by those deemed to have the credentials to do so. In an effort to feel more informed about labor and birth, many women turn to childbirth classes to help them through this scary, unknown rite of passage.

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Posted in Pregnancy by Darlene MacAuley. Leave a reply

The Secret to Surviving the First Six Weeks After Baby is Born

Surviving the First Six Weeks - SmartMom

You are finally home with your newborn baby. Throughout your pregnancy, you imagined what it would be like to finally have your bundle of joy in your arms. Although you heard and read about how life with a new baby was wonderful yet exhausting, you had no idea how difficult these first days at home would be. But there’s a secret to surviving the first six weeks after baby.

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How My Kids’ Montessori Schooling Influenced My Parenting

Photo by Parker Fitzgerald

When my son was three months old, I observed a Montessori classroom of toddlers. The miniature furniture, the homey feel, and the buzz of the children, all engrossed in a variety of independently-chosen “work,” fascinated me. While I expected a great experience for my children, I had not anticipated how Montessori schooling would influence my husband’s and my perspective about children and parenting. Here is what we learned.

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Posted in Lifestyle Parenting by Darlene MacAuley. Leave a reply

Charity Help With Kids

Young children are innately compassionate and exuberantly helpful. You can easily nurture these qualities by giving your children opportunities to be of service to others through charitable activities. Children as young as 3 years old can begin to understand that there are people and animals who could use some extra help to make their lives better. Participating in charity help with kids will teach your children about the three ways of helping others, (1) by giving time, (2) giving money or (3) passing along previously loved belongings. This will help you foster empathy and compassion that will guide your little ones as they grow up.

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Posted in Lifestyle Parenting by Darlene MacAuley. Leave a reply

How to Start Signing With Your Baby

Photo by Ashley Thalman

Sign language is an effective way to help your child communicate before he is able to speak. A baby’s motor and auditory perceptual skills develop enough for speech communication around 10-12 months of age. Until then, however, babies understand much more language than they are able to verbalize. Signing with your baby can help you form a bond before your little one can speak.

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Posted in Parenting by Darlene MacAuley. Leave a reply

Ear Piercing For Girls: What SmartMoms Need To Know

Getting one’s ears pierced is a rite of passage for many young girls. It may have been eons ago since you got your ears pierced, or you may have no idea where to start. Ear piercing for girls is a big deal, and they’ll be very excited when the time comes. Here are some helpful SmartMom tips for a smooth ear-piercing experience.

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Posted in Health and Wellness by Darlene MacAuley. 2 Replies

All About Cloth Diapers

Photo by Vanilla and Lace

It seems that in terms of recent baby trends everyone has been talking all about cloth diapers. You may be considering cloth diapers for your baby for financial, health or environmental reasons. You may also be utterly overwhelmed by the options available or clueless about where to start. This stop guide will help you decide what types of diapers and supplies to select, how to get started and answers your questions all about cloth diapers.

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Posted in Lifestyle by Darlene MacAuley. Leave a reply

The Importance of Emotional Intelligence For Kids

Emotional Intelligence for Kids - SmartMom

Photo by Emma Wood

Emotional intelligence, or EQ, is the ability to identify, understand and manage one’s own emotions and to have empathy for others. The importance of emotional intelligence for kids cannot be stressed enough. EQ shows itself in a child’s social skills, control, confidence, motivation and creative thinking – qualities and skills that are typically not taught in school, yet are vital for success, both in and out of the classroom.

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Posted in Parenting by Darlene MacAuley. Leave a reply

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