More For Mom

Article on the value of a home maker

2012-01-30T09:11:00.001-05:00

http://lifewise.canoe.ca/Investopedia/2012/01/27/19303426.html?utm_source=addThis&utm_medium=addthis_button_facebook&utm_campaign=CANOE+-+Lifewise+Investopedia%3A+How+Much+Is+A+Homemaker+Worth%3F#.TyYHsBSSY2Q.facebook

Book review: Supernanny How to get the best from your children

2012-01-26T13:43:00.003-05:00

AUTHOR: JO FROST (yes, the Supernanny herself)

If you have ever seen the show "supernanny" then this book is like the companion piece to go along with it.

It is short and sweet and doesn't go into much detail but it's concise and has some great advice. This is a very basic and "short-version" type book. (Her next book "ask Supernanny" has a lot more detail).

Some of the information isn't quite in line with some of the experts but the behaviour stuff is really good and quite easy to follow. (for instance her take on sleep training and controlled crying is a little different than Ferber or the no-cry sleep solution or even the baby whisperer). some of the information on feeding doesn't quite follow what we typically do in Canada either but overall, it's good information.

Now here is the magic with this book--it's short and easy to read and colourful and pretty... and I don't know... maybe it's because she is a recognizable face---but my husband actually picked it up and read some of it!!!

This is a basic book on some key parenting issues. It's a quick read and an easy reference. I thought it was pretty good, especially used along with watching some clips from the show. A great one to pick up from the library when you are in need for a quick solution to common parenting issues.

Book Review: Boys Adrift by Leonard Sax

2012-01-25T14:47:00.003-05:00

In my experienced mom parenting group I was referred to this book as I am the mother of two boys. My boys are still young so some of the information in the book seems far off from where I am at right now but great information to have with me for the upcoming years.

The book is broken down into chapters where the author explains reasons why boys and young men are underachieving and are not motivated.

I found most of the book to be very constructive and an excellent resource. Different warning signs to look for in your children if they are not engaged in school and what it could mean as well as different ways to keep them interested in learning were of particular interest to me. As a mother of a toddler and a baby I was a little bit less interested in the video game sections--although I know one day I will be craving information about video games!

The author writes in a very convincing (science, anecdotes and situations back up all of his claims) and engaging manner. The book is a good and quick read.

Probably the most interesting thing to parents of young boys is the manner in which boys learn and how the school system is not always set up for the way in which their minds work or develop. One thought is that if boys school later they may enjoy it more and also achieve better results. What I really took from this is that we have to ensure that we are giving our boys the opportunity to learn in ways that don't just involve sitting at a desk and reading and writing.

Overall, I would recommend to moms of boys to pick this book up at your library and read it as it does present some very interesting ideas. Although you might not agree with everything that he writes, he presents some really great thinking points.

Here is an excerpt:
http://www.boysadrift.com/excerpt.php

Book Review:Liberated Parents/Liberated Children: Your Guide to a Happier Family by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

2012-01-24T15:18:00.003-05:00

If you were to read one book by these authors, I would say to read "How To Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk" but that being said, this book is also good. It motivates you to be a more attentive parent, so that's good. This is the one to get from the library and read it and become enthusiastic to try out the methods. "How to talk so kids will listen and listen so kids will talk" is the book that you should have on your bookshelf.

This book was really good though, don't get me wrong. The authors speak from their experience of being in a parenting group and it truly shows the human side of parenting--failures and all.

It is a little dated in some ways but overall, the stories can be applied to today's kids just as much as they could be applied years ago.

The language that is used is a great way to parent and teaches many of the same skills in the How To Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk book but it presents these in anecdotal ways. The anecdotes that I loved the most are the ones where the narrator when into a situation with good intentions then at some point the conversation with her children/partner went terribly wrong. It really presents a very human side to parenting. It manages parenting expectations--perhaps because it was written before parents were trying so hard to be perfect.

Great book. Highly recommend that you get it from the library--it will motivate you and help you to adopt new techniques and language, which is never a bad thing.

Funny Blog for Moms!!!

2012-01-21T14:52:00.001-05:00

This is such a great blog--laugh out loud funny.

Check it out if you need a smile.

http://reasonsmommydrinks.com/

AS IS STORE EVENT

2011-12-11T14:13:00.002-05:00

I am a huge fan of the moms to be and more as-is- store as you can find some awesome deals. Be sure to check this sale out! The store has small and big ticket items.

Toronto with kids

2011-12-08T15:04:00.002-05:00

Check out this link for a post about things to do in Toronto with kids!

http://mylittlenomads.com/best-things-to-do-toronto-kids

For those who are interested--this blog is really great as well for traveling with kids--a very adventurous group, for sure!

http://mylittlenomads.com/

Perfect Mommy Massage at Zen Beginnings!

2011-12-06T19:55:00.004-05:00

What a great idea--while you get a massage by a Registered Massage Therapist--the staff at Zen Beginnings provides CHILDCARE! AMAZING! And the best part? The cost of childcare is INCLUDED in the price!

I spoke with the owner of Zen Beginnings and she explained that she sees it as an essential service to offer moms so that moms can take care of themselves. I love this philosophy! No more scheduling issues or stressing out about your little ones while you are trying to relax.

The massage therapist is very personable and talks to you before the massage to get a feel for what you want. Today I chose to have a lot of work done--so it was a pretty intense massage--I needed some serious work done to my sore nursing shoulders. You can tell her where you would like the focus or if you just want to relax, so that's nice. She also lets you set the mood--like do you want spa sounds or music with lyrics?

The massage therapist will also provide you with some things to try at home if you want it. When I was pregnant, she gave me some stretches to do and this time she explained how I should lie with a blanket wrapped under my back to help relieve some of the pressure on my shoulders.

It's hard to turn off your mommy ear and not try to hear for your little ones but they are well taken care of. For older kids there are arts and crafts activities. For all kids there are toys for all ages and books.

Let them know before you book and they will arrange the childcare professional for you.

This is a great service that I just had to rave about!

For more information:
http://www.zenbeginnings.com/

FREE CAR SEAT CANOPY!

2011-11-29T12:48:00.002-05:00

It's nice because you can use it as a blanket too and it has a minky interior.

It's as easy as 1-2-3!

1. Go to CarSeatCanopy.com.
2. Click on "Shop Now" and select any Car Seat Canopy or Whole Caboodle Set that you like. The Whole Caboodle Set includes the same Car Seat Canopy as well as a matching Minky Car Seat Slip Cover, Minky Head Support Pillow, Replacement Umbrella with Minky Lining and a Baby Lap Blanket with Minky Underside. This promotion brings the price on any "Whole Caboodle Set" regularly priced at $135 to only $29.95!

3. Once you have made your selection, you'll automatically be directed to the shopping bag. Enter the promo code " CHRISTMAS and it will bring your product total on a Car Seat Canopy to $0 and $29.95 on any Whole Caboodle Set!
Remember: the promo code is " CHRISTMAS " and you can order as many times as you want - just open a new browser window each time you do.

Great deal on an umbrella stroller!

2011-11-28T16:38:00.004-05:00

http://www.toysrus.ca/product/index.jsp?productId=3786341

BABY STEALS AND KIDSTEALS CYBER MONDAY

2011-11-28T12:08:00.001-05:00

They are posting a steal every two hours today!!! CHECK IT OUT!

http://babysteals.stealnetwork.com/index.php

http://kidsteals.stealnetwork.com/index.php

Book Review: How to talk so kids will listen and listen so kids will talk

2011-11-24T11:33:00.003-05:00

authors: Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish

This book was recommended to me in a recent workshop I attended. I got it from the library but soon realized that this is not a library book...it's a book that I should own, not borrow because it's one those books that you could (and should) pick up again and again. Some of the situations/examples are a little outdated (someone damaged someone else's record)but the information is amazing. It provides language to use with your children and really makes you think.

It provides language that encourages discussion and helps to build up your child's independence. It talks about the importance of not labeling your child. As I read the book I had many "aha" moments and reflected on how we are spoken to routinely and how easy it is to speak to our children in ways that don't encourage.

I loved this book and I wish all teachers, parents and ECE workers would read it!

KAREN KATZ BOOKS AT COSTCO

2011-11-23T15:58:00.002-05:00

I am a huge fan of Karen Katz for children--they all seem to love the big heads! If you are looking to build you baby's book collection--check this out:

13.99 for a pack of 8 Karen Katz books! Amazing!

Mommy and Baby Fitness

2011-11-22T09:11:00.002-05:00

Jenn sent me this review--thanks Jenn it's great!

Mommy and Baby Fitness
Location: Womens Fitness Clubs of Canada (Eglinton and Bayview)

I took my first Mommy and Baby Fitness class today. The verdict? Amazing!

After working out post pregnancy to dvd’s, which can be paused to tend to a fussing baby, I entered this class wondering if I’d actually get to exercise having my 5 month old daughter on a mat right beside me. The answer in a word...”ouch”! Workout I did. My tired legs and arms tonight are the proof!

The instructor, Laura, was terrific. She created a relaxing atmosphere while simultaneously encouraging you to push yourself.

The warm-up got us moms going and it incorporated the babies. They all seemed to love being included in the squats and lifts!

The middle portion is all about mom, doing cardio and strength training.

Laura ends the workout with some leg and ab work, incorporating the babies once again.

The unique piece about this class is that once the workout is complete, there is circle time for the babies! Laura went around to each of the babies incorporating their names into a song (she knew EVERY babies name by heart) and then led some more circle time songs with actions.

If you are looking for a fun way to get into shape with your baby close by, you should try this class out!

If the gym isn’t your thing, Mommy and Baby Fitness also offers other fitness options in various parks around the city (stroller fitness, mommy bootcamps, and snow shoeing to name a few). To find out more about these classes and locations check out their website.

http://mommyandbabyfitness.com/

ARCHIVE SHOPPING!

2011-11-20T10:43:00.003-05:00

This weekend until 9pm--shop the archive on both BABY STEALS AND KIDS STEALS!

Archive shopping is awesome because you can combine your orders--something you can't usually do on these sites.

Although American, these sites are very Canadian-Friendly!

Happy Shopping!

Baby heist today: grobags!!!

2011-11-19T16:09:00.000-05:00

http://www.babyheist.com/item_504/GROBAGS.htm

sears portrait deal--just in time for the holidays!

2011-11-17T14:46:00.001-05:00

Check out this great deal!!!

http://p.p0.com/YesConnect/HtmlMessagePreview?a=TiuNiev0hVlADYGjhdNE0p

Book Review: Connected Parenting Transform your Challenging Child and Build Loving bonds for Life

2011-11-16T00:29:00.000-05:00

Author: Jennifer Kolari

A parenting class I took recommended this book and I feel like it has some really great techniques for all parents.

I will admit that I glossed over some parts because some of it was about older children (my little guys are both 2 and half and under) but it made me realize that it might be a good book to pick up again later. Some of the tools are things that I have been trying on my son though and they have proven to be quite effective.

The focus is on mirroring your child's behaviours and empathizing with them. It seems simple right? But of course there is a technique on how to mirror and empathize.

The author wants you to use the CALM method: Connect, Affect, Listen and Mirror.

Connecting is showing your undivided attention (which is hard in today's busy world),

Affect means showing the emotions or feelings to your child through tone, body language and facial expressions

Listen means to actually listen with both ears and not while we are doing something else. Use words to show that you are listening to them. (she gives tools on how to do this and even gives you some words to try)

Mirror: By using the above techniques, you can mirror genuinely what they are feeling, and develop a good connection.

What I like best about this book is that she uses examples throughout to demonstrate things. The only complaint is that some of it is for older kids--but eventually I could see it being useful. That being said, in the parenting class at Becoming Maternity and Parenting Centre, the instructor Ariana who recommended this book said it's good to start this early so you become more comfortable with the skill and it becomes second nature.

It's available at the Toronto Public Library and it's worth a read.

Class Review--library baby time at the toronto public library

2011-11-15T05:46:00.000-05:00

Jenn wrote this great review!!

Location: Mount Pleasant Library

Baby Time

Baby Time is a free program offered at the Mount Pleasant branch of the Toronto Public Libraries. It’s a six session class that runs on Wednesday mornings from 10:30-11:00. For this particular class, caregivers had to register however; I’ve since learned that there are other libraries that offer this program, or a similar one, as a drop in.
The age range is from about 3 months to a year. It is an awesome class with lots of singing, rhymes, and of course stories! All the caregivers sit around a big quilt with their babies and participate in the activities. The atmosphere is very laid back and it’s not uncommon to see little ones crawling/walking around to get a closer look at the other babies or to check out a book or instrument!
Each class has a focus based on the libraries “Ready for Reading” tips which include: print motivation, phonological awareness, vocabulary, narrative skills, print awareness, and letter knowledge. The books that are read during a particular class are chosen based on these skills.
To check out Baby Time and more programs offered at a library near you check out the Toronto Public Library website http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/.

Class Review--Power Struggles Workshop at Zen Beginnings

2011-11-14T22:25:00.004-05:00

Dates: Saturday Nov. 5 and 12th 2-4pm (2 class workshop)
location: Zen Beginnings

This is a combination review--where 4 people put in their thoughts to make a full review:

I enjoyed the first class but, while in the session, I had been hoping that there was a bit more structure. However, once I got home I kept telling my husband things we discussed and realized how helpful this workshop could be. I thought the instructor mentioned some good things, but the time went way too quickly and I felt there was not as much substance to it as I would have liked. But then...

She told us to try one or two things and really work on it during the week and come back with situations that we could discuss. This is where the workshop really hit the mark. We came back enthused with our successes from her tips the week before and expressed the challenges we were facing. She gave us tools to use and helped us work through the times when we were not being effective. Having a two part workshop is such a great idea. It gave us the chance to try out techniques and then come back and discuss and build on the knowledge.

I really enjoyed the classes and definitely got a lot out of it. My husband and I keep stopping ourselves now when we say "That's great." or "Wow!" or whatever. The instructor was very good. I'm proud of myself after the taking the class-- I only used "don't " 8 times as opposed to 20!!!!!!! So that said, I wouldn't mind taking more classes in the new year:)

Parenting workshops are a great way to get you inspired to be a better parent and can give you tools to deal with the everyday craziness. It also helps to discuss with other parents what they do that is effective.

My Brest Friend

2011-11-14T11:27:00.002-05:00

Winners (every winners location is different but do tend to get similar stock) at Lawrence and Bathurst has My Brest Friend Breastfeeding Pillows (which are the best!) for $29.99!!! These pillows usually retail for around $60.00-70.00. They also have a limited selection of covers for $14.99. These usually retail for $30.00.

Great Deal!

As always, when at Winners check out the Melissa and Doug and Manhattan toy products which are always a great deal at Winners.

Becoming's Members Sale!!!

2011-11-12T07:55:00.000-05:00

Got this email from Becoming located at Avenue/Eglinton and in Thornhill.

It's that time of year again! Our quarterly Members-Only Sale. Our way to say thank to our wonderful Members.

Join Us For A HUGE one week Pre-Holiday Members Only Sale!

Save at LEAST 20% on everything in the shop

Not a member yet? It's not too late! Just drop in and purchase a 1 year membership for just $64.99 (second year just $50)

Sale runs from
Friday, November 11th to Thursday, November 17th!

All savings are off our regular non-member prices and cannot be combined with any other offers. Sale applies to in-stock items only. Must mention this email prior to purchase to receive sale prices.

Every parent knows how important a good night's rest can be
Save 30% On All Sleep Accessories!

Sleep Accessories Include:
All GroBag Products
All Aden & Anais Products
Pippalily Swaddlers
Woombies
NooNoo All Natural Eco-Friendly Blankets & Toys
Peppa Dolls
All Sound Machines

25% Off All Carriers
All Beco Butterfly II Carriers
All New Native Slings
All Pippalily Slings
All Moby and Cuddly Wraps
All Z'Fina Man Slings

40% Off The Following Great Products

All Peanut Shell, Blue Celery and My Little Star Slings
All Medela Underwire and Maternity Nursing Bras
All Bravado Lifestyle Microfibre Bras
All Bravado Original Non-Nursing Bras
All Diapees and Wipees and Posh Mom Diaper Pouches
Gr8x Baby Traveller Systems and Inflatable Nursing Travel Pillows
Diaper Dude and New Native Diaper Bags
Westcoast Baby Kimonos, Caps, Booties and Nesting Kits

FRIDAY FAVES: RAIN OR SHINE KIDS (RoSK) blankets

2011-11-11T08:59:00.004-05:00

This is one of those "good idea" products. It's a blanket that has little ties on the side. Because of those little ties you can use the blanket on the carseat, in the stroller and on a carrier and it won't move! You can of course use it as well as just as a blanket, so very versatile.
It is weather proof and warm and comes in great colours. It's safe to use on carseats.

Could you make it yourself? Of course you could. Attach ties to any blanket and you have a pretty great cover. But... you can get these on babysteals for under $30 so... might not be worth pulling out the sewing machine since these have the weather proof material on the one side. It's also a good quality product.

ENCHANTRESS DRESSES--25% off

2011-11-07T20:20:00.003-05:00

Preorder now at Diapers to Denim and get a pretty dress for your little princess for $29.95. Offer valid until Wednesday!

LINKS:
http://diaperstodenim.com/

ttp://www.facebook.com/pages/Diapers-To-Denim-Online-Childrens-Boutique/148267101871267h

blueberry training pants

2011-11-05T19:55:00.003-04:00

I absolutely love these.

They are soft, absorb one pee in case of accidents and come in cute colours! They fit well under a child's pants too which is a huge bonus. They wash well too which is great. They don't have elastic on them so they are very comfy.

Here is the only problem: it's hard to find them. They are only sold at a few places in Canada. Here are some links:

The product:
http://www.blueberrydiapers.com/

Some stores in Canada who have the product and are great with shipping:
Belly Laughs in Ottawa
http://www.bellylaughs.ca/item.php?item_id=820&category_id=82

Little Monkey Store:
http://www.littlemonkeystore.com/Blueberry-Trainers_p_124.html