Tips for Preparing Your Child for Back-to-School in a COVID-World

Next week, our oldest heads off to kindergarten. And in the world that we currently live in, I would be lying if I said I wasn't just a little bit stressed.

Starting "big kid school" alone is enough of a worry for parents - how will my child do, will my child make friends, will they miss me, and so on and so on, are all valid questions on our mind. Truth is, I don't feel prepared. BUT add on a global pandemic, potential exposure, new health and safety policies and procedures, wearing a mask all day, etc. etc., and things get a bit more worrisome.

(^^ How was that one year ago already?! ^^)

The past few weeks I've spent a lot of time talking with other family members, parent friends and teacher friends to learn how they're feeling about sending their kids back to school, and the techniques they're applying to ensure a smooth transition.

Here are some of the things I learned, straight from the mouths of parents and teachers.

Side note: I understand that school has already started for some and for us in Toronto, is quickly approaching next week. However, it doesn't help to apply these tips anyways. 

Tips for Preparing Your Child for Back-to-School in a COVID-World

1. If your child is not used to wearing a mask, get them used to it as soon as possible.  Start in small increments (5-10min) and gradually build up.  Perhaps you can put a mask on their favourite stuffy to "normalize" it a bit more.  

*I know that school starts next week for us here in Toronto, and it may be too late to apply this tip. However, if you live outside of Toronto and masks are not mandatory in your child's school, it may not hurt to start applying this tip in the evening, just in case. 

2. If you are out shopping with your child, be intentional about showing them the signs and stickers on the floor which point out directions and the need for proper social distancing and what that looks like. 

3. For lunch or snack times, pack a tea towel or cloth in their bag for them to use as a placemat.

4. Make sure to pack a spoon and/or fork for your child to use so that they are limiting the need to put their hands in their mouths-especially for fruit which can be very sticky. 

5. Make sure that your child can open and close all of her/his containers,packages or thermos meals. 

6. Start practicing with your child how to zip up/button clothing and make sure to send your child to school with velcro shoes. Laces will not be tied up.👟

7. Start practicing a hand washing routine and how to do so properly (between the fingers, wrists, back of the hand). Same with sanitizing.  Do it multiple times in the am and pm.  

8. Talk to your child about how to behave in the bathroom at school.  It's not a place to play. Do your business and get out. And stay off the floor. 

9. Have a safety plan. If you are working and receive a call from the school that your child is ill, is there someone who can pick them up?  What protocols does your place of work have for parents who need to pick up a sick child?  

10. Invest in good outerwear for your child-rain boots, raincoat with a hood, snow pants and jacket, warm mittens and hats. This year students will be spending A LOT of time outdoors-rain or shine. 

Check out some of our favourite back-to-school gear for outdoor play, here.

 

11. Remember to pack an indoor pair of running shoes for the first day of school so that soiled outdoor shoes remain out of the classroom area.  Children will need a set of clothes to remain at school in case of spills or bathroom accidents. 

12. Label everything-masks, clothes, masks, water bottles etc. Mabel's Labels are durable labels that can get wet and won't wear off. We buy the Ultimate Back-to-School combo which includes 40 small rectangle labels, 70 Tag Mates stick on clothing labels and 16 shoe labels. 

Additional tip: If you have multiple children, order labels with your last name instead of the child's first name. This makes it easier if they share belongings. 

13. Invest in a breakaway lanyard or fanny pack for your child to place their mask when not in use. (We used this breakaway lanyard and this fanny pack - both Canadian small shops.)

14. Practice having your child apply sunscreen.  In the past we have helped apply it, but will be unable to do so this year.  Show them what an appropriate amount is and important places it needs to be applied.  

15. Ensure your child drinks enough water to stay hydrated. Talk about the importance of drinking water, and how it can help to keep them healthy. (This is our favourite reusable water bottle for kids.)

16. Pack extra masks in your child's backpack, just in case. Place them in a clean resealable sandwich bag. Also have an extra bag on hand for soiled masks. 

17. Have conversations. Having open, age-appropriate conversations with your children will help them know they are not alone, that we do not have all the answers, that flexibility is very important and that parents, teachers, doctors, etc. are doing everything possible to ensure their health and safety.

18. After spending many long months at home, children may feel nervous about going back to school and being apart from family members. There's a strong possibility of separation anxiety. Have conversations about going back to school and try to develop tools for your child to feel connected to home, such as notes in their lunchbox, or a family photo they can bring to school.

19. While visiting the interior of the school may not be allowed, take a walk through the outdoor yard. Show your child where they will enter, where you'll pick them up at the end of the day and where they will play outdoors. Children (especially kindergarteners) are creatures of habit, so walking them through where they will spend their time may make them feel more at ease. 

20. Remember, we're all in this together. Talk with your children and help them understand that anyone can get the virus, no matter where they are from in the world. We all must do our part to keep ourselves, family, friends and others safe and healthy. 

Keep in mind - these tips can be applied to children of all ages and are not restricted solely to those entering kindergarten. Practicing proper hygiene and health and safety procedures is important for everyone, regardless of your age. 

Do you have any tips and tricks for preparing your child for back-to-school in a COVID-world? I'd love to hear!

For those that have already started school, did you apply any of these tips? And did you find they were effective? Please share!

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Let's be honest, school is going to look A LOT different this year. With more outdoor time planned, it's important we send our kids to school with the appropriate gear for the activities AND the weather. As September approaches, and you begin to create your back to school shopping lists, be sure to check out our favourite back to school gear for outdoor play!

I've always been a big advocate for outdoor education. As an environmental education professional for the past decade plus, I see the benefits of getting kids outside and connecting them with nature. Whether the intent is to learn about our environment, or just spend time outdoors for fun, being outside has a positive benefits on mental health. Extending the classroom to the outdoors, even if being forced to do so for public health and safety and the ease of social distancing, is beneficial for everyone - teachers, students AND parents. 

A recent report by the Children and Nature Network documents how getting students outside more enhances learning and academic performance and is good for physical and emotional well-being. The report found that more outdoor learning contributed to lower rates of diabetes, heart disease and other chronic diseases, reduces anxiety and depression and engages students in their schoolwork. And at a time where mental health may be at an all time low thanks to COVID, anything that takes my daughter's mind off of the anxieties of that come with "the big bad germs" and improve her physical and emotional well-being, is welcome in my books. 

One key to creating an enjoyable outdoor experience is ensuring children have the proper outdoor gear. Staying warm, dry and comfortable is definitely key. And it doesn't hurt to be over-prepared for the weather. As a friend in Alaska, where you can blink and the weather has changed, once told me, "It's easier to take off the layer you have, than to put on the one you don't have." Simply put, layering is key because you can always take them off. Wise words I live by, and now enforce with my girls.

With the amount of time we spent outside in all seasons, we've learned a thing or two over the years about what being dressed for the weather and outdoor play means. And now, we're sharing that info with you! Check out our list of favourite back to school gear for outdoor play below.

Back to School Gear for Outdoor Play

Outdoor Clothing & Gear

1. MEC Toaster Suit: Full coverage and warmth for small skiers and riders who want to play outside in wind or wet snow (because wet snow is the best building snow). This classic one-piece suit offers warmth and weather protection when there's fun to be had in fall and winter. Redesigned for 2018 based on member feedback, the Toaster Suit is now waterproof and tougher than ever. Durable waterproof fabric helps them stay warm and dry through hours in the snow, and it's abrasion-resistant to stand up to the demands of serious play. The suit has room for layers and a hem that can be let down to accommodate growth, then (if you need it) tacked up again to ready it for the next kid in line. Also comes in infant sizes. *Easily our favourite clothing item from MEC for our children.

2. MEC Toaster Bib Pants: These waterproof insulated pants offer weather protection when there's fun to be had in foul conditions. Redesigned for 2018 based on member feedback, these snowpants are tougher than ever. New durable waterproof fabric helps them stay warm and dry through hours in the snow, and it's abrasion-resistant to stand up to the demands of serious outdoor play. Room for layers lets you dress for the weather, and an adjustable hem accommodates growth, then (if you need it) readies them for the next kid. Variable-thickness insulation allows ease of movement while retaining warmth. And a center zip makes them easy to get on and off.

3. MEC Long Toaster Parka: For those days where the cold comes at you from every angle, a little extra parka goes a long way. The Long Toaster Parka keeps the youngest members of the family warm and comfortable, and that is in everyone’s best interest. Thoughtful details include soft trim around the neck and pockets, reflective piping, zipper pulls that can be grabbed with mittened hands, and insulation that's tapered in the arms, so movement isn't limited.

4. MEC Newt Suit: An outdoor classic for wet days. Redesigned based on member feedback, the updated Newt Suit returns to the durable, tried-and-true fabric of previous years. Taped seams and waterproof fabric stand up to wet playgrounds and rainy hikes, so kids stay dry and comfortable no matter where their explorations take them. Long zippers make for easier outfit changes when it's finally time to head inside. Also comes in infant sizes.

5. MEC Aquanator Jacket: The fully waterproof-breathable fabric on this jacket ensures dryness through wet and windy conditions.The relaxed silhouette easily fits over several warm layers and can be worn just a light jacket as conditions require. Comes in the pictured pink pattern and blue. Also comes in youth sizes.

6. MEC Heritage Rain Pants: These rain pants are built for the wettest weather and the splashiest activities imaginable. The seams are fully taped and the fabric has a DWR finish. Ideal in extremely wet conditions when the goal is to stay completely dry. Comes in blue, grey and black. Also comes in infant sizes.

7. MEC Campfire Fleece Jacket: This mid-weight polyester fleece jacket works perfectly as a mid-layer to wear under a rain jacket or ski shell. On its own it takes the chill off outdoor play. It has classic style and even a bit of a retro nod, but the brushed polyester is entirely warmth-without-weight modern. Comes in a handful of colours, including purple and orange.

8. MEC Sunnyday Joggers: These joggers are perfect for campsite exploring and recess adventures. With a UPF rating of 50+, the Sunnyday joggers are ready for fun in the sun.The lightweight fabric is treated to repel water and resist dirt, keeping kids looking cleaner longer. 

9. Sunday Afternoons Play Hat: This sunhat gives the perfect sun coverage for small heads. The cape provides neck protection and compresses easily for leaning back in a car or stroller. A buoyant foam core in the brim keeps the hat afloat if it falls out of the canoe. The lightweight fabric allows it to dry quickly, and also resist water and dirt. Breakaway chin strap provides security and safety, which is extremely important on the playground. Comes in a variety of different colours. 

Outdoor Footwear

10. Kamik Riptide Rain Boots: These Canadian-made rain boots are 100% waterproof for foul weather protection. Kamik's lightweight rubber protects you from the elements without weighing you down, while the insole has an antimicrobial treatment to keep things fresh. Comes in a variety of colours. 

11. Kamik Snowbug 4 Boots: These winter boots are perfect for the littlest members of your family. They'll keep your little ones wonderfully warm, and the easy-fit, extra wide openings and adjustable elastic Velcro® strap provides a snug, stay-on fit.

12. Smartwool Toddler Trio Socks: This 3-pack of Smartwool socks are made from 70% merino wool, and their medium thickness makes them perfect to pair with winter boots and high-volume footwear.

13. Smartwool Merino Hike Stripe Light Crew Socks - Children: These mid-calf height Smartwool socks are made from 48% merino wool, making them perfect for hiking, camping, winter and even daytime at school. 

Additional Gear

14. Hydro Flask 354mL Wide Mouth Kids Bottle: Made from 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, this TempShield™ double-wall insulated keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours and won’t sweat in their backpack - perfect for making sure your child has access to cold water to stay hydrated all day long.

15. MEC Process Bookbag: The much-loved MEC Book Bag has a fresh look and an updated name. Dedicated spots for your laptop, books and academic supplies are still in the equation, but we've added a new heritage-inspired logo and better organization for electronics. There's a low profile side pocket to hold a water bottle or a slim vacuum flask of caffeinated motivation, and the fabric is more durable than ever. This unisex bag comes in a variety of colours. 

16. Light My Fire Spork: It's a knife, it's a fork, it's a spoon. It's the perfect addition to any kiddos lunch bag. This durable utensil is made of a corn-based co-polyester that won't scratch non-stick coatings and is dishwasher safe. Comes in a variety of colours, and as a single or 2-pack. 

17. SkipHop Kids Insulated Lunch Box: This roomy, insulated lunch bag keeps food and drinks cold, including when outside for longer periods of time. They are easy to clean, machine washable. An interior mesh pocket can hold utensils, and a handle clip to allow attach to any backpack. Comes in a variety of fun characters including unicorn, butterfly, owl, monkey and more. 

18. Bentgo Kids Brights – Leak-Proof, 5-Compartment Bento-Style Kids Lunch Box: This bento lunch box has five practical compartments, portioned perfectly for a child’s appetite (recommended for ages 3-7). It is made with BPA-free materials and is drop-proof, with rubber-coated edges and sturdy design - ideal for active kids on the go.

19. Mabel's Labels Ultimate Back to School Label Combo: Make sure your kiddos never loose their outdoor (or indoor) gear again with these durable, waterproof name labels.  Perfect for backpacks, lunch containers, clothes, water bottles, pencil cases and so much more. Sign up for their newsletter and receive 20% off your purchase. 

What's on your back to school shopping list for your kiddos? Needing to purchase any additional gear in anticipation of longer outdoor time? I'd love to hear!

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

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5 Fun & Easy Summer Cricut Joy Projects (+ Preschooler Flashcard DIY)

*Disclosure: This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Cricut. All opinions are 100% mine.

Summer. The days are long, and the kids are out of school. And chances are high that you’ve also been home from work - maybe juggling working and caring for your children? Ya, me too. Keeping them busy and engaged, while limiting screen time to allow you to get work done is not an easy task. And if there is ever a time to pull out the Cricut and create some fun projects with (or without) your kiddos, now is the time.

Today, I’m sharing why I love my Cricut Joy™, specifically five of my favourite Cricut Joy DIY projects that I’ve made at home this summer using Cricut Joy Smart Vinyl™.

5 Fun & Easy Summer Cricut Joy Projects

Vegetable Garden Markers

One of my favourite things about our new house is the backyard. It’s crazy what a little green space can do for your mood. Since moving in last summer, I have been so excited for the girls to finally have a place to get outside and play. But, this new green space also meant that I could build an even bigger and better vegetable garden than the container gardens we had on our condo terrace last summer. So we were able to tell what was what, I created these vegetable garden markers using up cycled paint stir sticks that I simply spray painted white and Smart Vinyl - Permanent in black. I measured the size of the paint stir sticks and created the vegetable labels text (DJ Juicy font) in the Cricut design space app. I applied the labels to the painted stir sticks with Transfer Tape, and once completed, added them to my garden next to the appropriate fruit or vegetable. Much better looking that the generic tags that come from the Garden Centre. 

Wooden Welcome Sign

This wooden welcome sign is one of my favourite Cricut Joy projects to date. Earlier this summer, we added a deck to the back of our house, and to give it some added personality, we created this “Welcome to Our Deck” sign. It was also super easy to make, and with several home update projects already on the go, we had all of the materials we needed already at home. I simply created the text in the design space app (Babette font for "Welcome" and Creative Memories Tiny Treasures - Rubber Ducky font for "to our deck"). My design can be found on Design Space here.

Mailbox Decal

While our front porch is going to be next summer’s focus, I couldn’t help but take our ugly white mailbox and give it some curb appeal by painting it black to match the porch railings. I then personalized the mailbox with “hello” text created in the Cricut design space app using Babette font (easily my favourite cursive font in the app). Once the mailbox was dry, I applied the cut vinyl in the desired spot using Transfer Tape. 

Stemless Wine Glasses

We love to entertain. And while this summer may look a little different when it comes to entertain, I am happy that we have still been able to have those in our bubble over for backyard BBQs. I recently purchased more backyard-friendly plastic stemless wine glasses and decided to jazz them up a little using Smart Vinyl - Permanent in gold. I measured the size of the glasses and created the “cheers” text (Babette font) in the Cricut design space app. I then applied the labels to the outside of the clean glasses uses Transfer Tape. They were very easy to make, and added a little something extra (including lots of compliments and questions about where I bought them) to our backyard get togethers.

Preschooler Flash Cards

These flashcards were one of the first projects I made with my Cricut Joy when schools closed back in March. I was determined to keep the learning continuing, and these super simple flashcards were a great help in doing so. Using construction paper and Smart Vinyl - Permanent, in white, I created a set of capital letter cards and small letter cards. These flashcards could be used for letter recognition, spelling names and/or matching capital and small letters. The flashcards were very easy to create in design space, as the font Cricut Alphabet Circle already existed. I simply printed it on the vinyl, and applied it to the construction paper using the Transfer Tape. I did used two separate colours of construction paper, one for the capital letters and one for the small letters. But if you wanted to up the difficulty, you could use the same coloured paper for all. 

Next up on my Cricut Joy DIY list? Story blocks. Stay tuned to see how they turn out.

The Cricut Joy makes home DIY projects so easy. Unlike other Cricut machines, the Cricut Joy is a compact cutting machine, less than half the size of Cricut Explore and Cricut Maker—making it perfect for people without a dedicated crafting area (like me)! From customized pillows, to personalized glassware and welcome signs, the possibilities are nearly endless with this fun tool.

For the majority of my projects, including those outdoors, I use Cricut Joy Smart Vinyl - Permanent which is water- and UV-resistant, and lasts up to 3 years. Cricut Joy Smart Vinyl also comes in removal and writable, and a variety of different colours, including mattes, metallics, holographic and more. 

Be sure to check out the Cricut blog, where you’ll will find more DIY inspiration and tutorials! Use the hashtag #CricutAtHome when sharing your project on social media - I would love to see what you create!

Do you have a Cricut machine? What’s your favourite project to make? I’d love to hear - I’m always looking for inspiration!

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To the Mama Sending Her Baby to Daycare for the First Time

Daycare - a seven letter word that carries so many different emotions.

Anxiety. Because it means your maternity leave is nearing an end and you’re starting to think about
going back to work.

Guilt. Because you may second guess every decision you make when it comes to going back to work,
your child’s care, etc. (that is, if you haven’t been already).

Happiness. Because it may mean a few days of “freedom” each week where you can focus on yourself while knowing your child is in a safe space.

Pride. Because you will be able to watch your child learn and grow - mentally, physically, socially and emotionally.

Frustration. Because some of those things that your child learns may be less than desirable behaviours.

Worry. Because daycare can be associated with… illness.

At least, those were some of the emotions that were swirling in my head when my oldest daughter went to daycare for the first time.

I’m not going to lie, daycare is an emotional experience. Really though, that’s parenthood - a roller
coaster of emotions.

But despite all of those emotions I went through, you know what?

She survived. She thrived. She absolutely loved it. And when I did it all over again at the end of the
summer with my second daughter, I took a lesson from my own playbook, and stayed calm, cool and collected as I kissed her goodbye on that very first day, and all of those that followed.

For you mamas that are getting ready to send your little one off for the first time, rest assured, day-care does not need to be “day-scare”. To help both you and your child navigate this big change in routine, check out these tips that I used to help prepare for a positive first daycare experience.

Preparing For a Positive Daycare Experience

Start the change in routine early. If attending daycare requires a new schedule (i.e. waking up earlier, eating breakfast at a different time, etc.), begin this new routine several days before to make the transition easier for your child. When you register, ask for a copy of their daily schedule so that you can plan accordingly.

Ease into it. Take advantage of the transition week. A slow, part-time introduction to the new
environment works best for many kids. Most centres also give parents the choice of dropping off and
leaving or hanging around for a bit during the first week.

Trust and communicate. While the thought of someone else caring for your child, teaching your child new things and creating memories with your child may scare you (and even make you a wee bit jealous), remember this is their job. They are licensed professionals, so you must put your trust in them. If you have questions or concerns regarding your child, make sure they are heard and addressed immediately.

Start a goodbye routine. Establishing a specific goodbye routine will help your child be more
comfortable at drop-off time, so begin one the first day. Even if your child is upset, stay calm. A
confident attitude will help reassure your little one that everything will be okay. It may sound cruel, but sometimes the best method is to just leave. They will quickly be distracted by a new friend or toy, and forget why they were even upset.

Be patient. Be flexible. The first week of daycare involves an adjustment for you, as well as your child. Be patient. It will take some time, but everything will work out for the both of you. If you are heading back to work right away, make sure your employer is aware of your situation. You might need a little extra flexibility in your schedule over the next few days to establish your new routine.

Be prepared. Most daycares will provide parents with a list of items to bring beforehand. This usually includes diapers, wipes, extra clothes, indoor shoes, weather-appropriate outdoor clothing, expressed milk/formula, etc.

Being prepared also means prepping for the things that happen away from daycare, like one of my big worries - illness.

In daycare, colds spread easily among children because they often touch their noses, eyes and put
objects in their mouths during play. In fact, children under the age of 2 can suffer from as many as eight to 10 colds a year (2.).

Fact is, colds are likely inevitable when it comes to daycare. But, there is something that can help with the unpleasant side effects. Advil Pediatric Drops (for children age 4 months to 3 years) reduce fever for up to 8 hours while also relieving pain due to colds, sore throat—so your baby can rest peacefully while at home. They also come with a SURE-DOSE™ oral syringe, for precise and easy dosing.

So part of that preparation? Stocking up on pain relief (and plenty of sick days) when baby first goes to daycare.

It may be hard to hand your baby over to someone else, but preparing yourself for what’s to come while focusing on the friends they'll make, the new things they'll learn and the fun they'll have will make the both of you feel better about the experience.

Do you have any tips or tricks to share for preparing for a first daycare experience? I'd love to hear!

*Disclosure: I have partnered with Children’s Advil, and have received compensation for this post. As always, all opinions and experiences are 100% that of To & Fro. Be sure this product is right for your kids, always read and follow the label.

References:

1. https://www.babycenter.ca/x1049702/do-kids-in-daycare-get-sick-more-oftenthan-kids-who-stay-home

2. https://www.cps.ca/en/media/cold-fighting-tips

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Navigating the Transition

In the daycare world, 18 months marks a big transition. 

When the calendar hits eighteen months, it means a move from the “baby” infant room to the "big kid" toddler room.

Earlier this month we celebrated the big 18 month milestone in our house. Right, 18 months?! Where has time gone?

But, while we were celebrating Morley turning 18 months, we were not celebrating that daycare move. 

In our family, the toddler room transition did not happen as anticipated this month. And it won’t be happening next month. Or the month after that. 

It won't be happening when originally planned because baby girl has already been in the toddler room for two. whole. months!

Insert proud mama moment here.

Back in June, one of Morley's teachers approached me about making the switch to the toddler room a few months early. She wanted to know how I would feel about moving her from a room of six 6 to 18 month old babies, to a room filled with 10 crazy (and I mean real crazy) 18 to 30 month old toddlers. As her teacher explained, in a room filled with babies she was just not being "challenged enough". Fair enough. 

Lets go back to that proud mama moment for a sec...

Talk about making a mama feel good. One, for our choice in daycare because they recognized that she needed more. And two, for having one smart little cookie. (And, if I’m being completely honest here, three, because the toddler room is cheaper.)

So, without hesitation I said, “Let’s do it!”

And then, I realized what exactly we were signing up for. I realized that with the transition came more independence. It also came with less bottles and less napping. And, probably the biggest thing of all, it also meant that our little girl was growing up, quicker than we'd like. 

Back-peddling slightly, I asked her teacher how she thought she would do. I had my concerns, full well knowing that napping wasn’t one of Morley’s strongest suits at daycare. Going from a crib in a quiet sleeping room to a cot in a room filled with toys and friends made me a tad bit nervous. It would be like a giant sleepover party every single day, and baby girl has some serious FOMO (aka fear of missing out). Sleeping was also her teacher’s hesitation.

After a quick laugh about how Morley sleeps, we realized that if that hesitation was the worst of it, making the move was the right thing to do.  

We knew that making the switch would be better for Morley. It would be better for the other children. It would be better for, and easier on, her teachers. And, if I'm being completely honest again here, it would be better for mom and dad's bank account.

Related article >> Lessons From My Toddler

Related article >> Talking Daycare & Preparing for a Positive Transition

So, similar to initially transitioning her into daycare a short eight months ago, she spent a few hours a day in the toddler room the week leading up to the big move. 

And you know how she did?

Big girl completely rocked it. She navigated the transition seamlessly.

And as for me? Again, inserting another proud mama moment here. For both Morley and myself.

Unlike that very first day eight months ago, the mom guilt was non-existent.

Related article >> Talking Mom Guilt

Since starting daycare, our toddler has grown by leaps and bounds. In the past two months alone she has learned how to count to five (although not always in the right order), can sing her “ACs” (her words, not mine), knows her colour (yes that is singular, everything is “boo”) and is an animal expert (seriously, kid knows what a koala is).  

So to all of those mamas out there that are having a hard time with the thought of daycare, I was in your shoes once. I felt like the worst mom in the world for leaving my baby girl with strangers. But I also know that because of it, she is better. We are better. 

That mom guilt you're feeling about daycare? It will disappear. I promise.

Now, if only potty training and taking her off the bottle were going to be as easy...

How do you navigate the big transitions in your child's life? I'd love to hear your tips!

Lessons From My Toddler

It has been exactly 60 "school days" since Morley started daycare.

That mom guilt I was feeling back on day one? You know, that uncontrollable feeling moms get that no matter what they do, they are not doing the right thing? Ya, it's still there. It ebbs and flows depending on the day, but overall, it hasn't gotten any easier. Even with 60 days under our belt.

I guess I should clarify that statement. It hasn't gotten any easier for ME.

Baby girl? She L-O-V-E-S daycare.

I was talking daycare with a girlfriend the other day. It's a pretty common topic of conversation these days, especially amongst those with kids. I was telling her how it seems that every day Morley comes home from day care, she brings a new skill or behaviour with her, continuously impressing us. 

One day it is saying "up" or "choo choo" or "boo" (which we've learned is book), while the next it is knowing how to put on her shoes, asking please in baby sign language or even putting her cheese string wrapper in the garbage, completely unprompted. Such a little sponge. I am still amazed that a 13 month old knows how to throw her trash in the garbage, or even where the garbage can is. Most adults still struggle with that simple task.

And while baby girl has learned so much these past 60 days, you could say we've learned a lot too.

Like what an "incident report" is. She's gotten quite the reputation as a little bruiser, constantly testing the limits of her new walk/run ability and getting a liiitttttle too confident. It usually ends with her bonking her head, and mom and dad having to sign off on that dreaded incident report. 

One other thing that we've come to learn is that bottles are not only a necessity for feeding, but also a must for comfort.

In a recent parenting fail, we forgot to put a bottle in her bag for a recent evening at Grandpa's house. Silly me thinking a sippy cup would do the trick. You'd think the world was ending, absolutely inconsolable. 

Lesson learned. Baby needs her bubba, especially before bed. 

Yes, those are Christmas pjs. And yes, I'm aware its spring. As with her bottles, comfort is also key when it comes to pjs.

From the very beginning, we have been a Philips Avent family. Philips Avent Natural Bottles are the most natural way to bottle feed. The advanced anti-colic system with innovative twin valve is extremely important to ensure air goes into the bottle and not baby's tummy. The bottles have an ergonomic shape for maximum comfort, making them easy to hold and grip in any direction. They are simple to use and clean, with quick and easy assembly, which is important when you've got a hungry babe on your hands. Or, in our case, one that needs just a little bit of comfort before she goes to bed.

Philips Avent Natural Bottles are 100% BPA-free and are available in two different sizes, 4oz (125mL) and 9oz (260mL), colours and decorations.

Do you have a toddler at home? What have they taught you? I'd love to hear!

GIVEAWAY: Don't forget to enter this amazing giveaway from Philips Avent! Enter below for your chance to win one of two Philips Avent Natural Bottle and Anti-Colic Bottle Gift Sets. This giveaway is open to all Canadians and runs until 5/21/2017. Good luck!

Philips Avent Bottles Giveaway - March/April 2017

Disclaimer: As a member of the PTPA Brand Ambassador Program with Philips Avent, I received products and/or compensation in exchange for this post. All opinions and advice shared are 100% my own. Thank you Philips Avent! 

Making the Switch

One of the important things that we had to consider when Morley started daycare was making the switch from formula to whole milk. 

At just shy of 11 months, we weren't sure if we were ready to make the switch just yet.  Everything we had read said to wait until baby is at least a year old. That their little bodies weren't yet ready to handle whole cow's milk because it doesn't "contain enough nutrients, vitamins or minerals to adequately and properly sustain an infant’s growth." 

As a new parent, that is kind of terrifying to read. 

However, after discussions with our nurse and family doctor, we were told that starting Morley on whole milk before she reached that recommended one year milestone would not be a problem. What the whole milk was lacking in nutrients, vitamins and minerals, she would be getting from the food she was eating.

Not only would the switch to whole milk be easier for us, but it would also be easier for the daycare. We would no longer need to provide the formula anymore, and they would provide the milk. She would be eating and drinking the same things as the other kids in her class. I can't forget to mention that it would also be easier on our wallets. Formula is pricey! Seemed like a win-win to us.

And so, with that green light, the "weaning" process began.

We really didn't know what to expect from making the switch. Morley had a hearty appetite but loved her bottles. How would she handle the difference in taste? Would she even notice? How did we go about making a seamless switch, so that she enjoyed the milk?

"Start slow," they said. "Baby won't like the sudden change in taste," they said. Everything we had read had said to gradually introduce the milk - start by mixing half formula, half milk. Once baby was comfortable with the new mixture, slowly start to introduce more milk, less formula, until the formula was no more.

Truth is, we ignored what we read online and dove right in. No mixing, just straight milk. Turns out, baby girl loves whole milk. Once she downed her first bottle, we said adios to formula and didn't look back.

Part of the reason the switch was so much easier than "they" said it would be was because of the bottles we use. 

From the very beginning, we have been a Philips Avent family. Philips Avent Natural Bottles are the most natural way to bottle feed. The advanced anti-colic system with innovative twin valve is extremely important to ensure air goes into the bottle and not baby's tummy. The bottles have an ergonomic shape for maximum comfort, making them easy to hold and grip in any direction. They are simple to use and clean, with quick and easy assembly, which is important when you've got a hungry babe on your hands. Philips Avent Natural Bottles are 100% BPA-free and are available in two different sizes, 4oz (125mL) and 9oz (260mL), colours and decorations.

Because we love Philips Avent products so much, we're teaming up with Philips to give away TWO Natural Bottles Gift Sets and TWO Anti-Colic Bottles Gift Sets to our readers! 

Whether there's a new baby on the way or you're looking for the perfect baby shower gift, bottles are a must have for any new parent. And this giveaway is perfect for both breast and bottle fed babies! Enter below for your chance to win one of two Philips Avent Natural Bottle and Anti-Colic Bottle Gift Sets. This giveaway is open to all Canadians, including Quebec. Good luck!

Philips Avent Bottles Giveaway - March/April 2017


Do you have any tips or tricks for making the switch? I'd love to hear!

Disclaimer: As a member of the PTPA Brand Ambassador Program with Philips Avent, I received products and/or compensation in exchange for this post and my honest review. The opinions and advice shared in this post are 100% my own, and I only work with companies that I genuinely love